'To Kill A Mockingbird' by Harper Lee

Book Review

Harper Lee's only novel is rightly lauded throughout the world as a classic. A heart-felt story of two children growing up in the American South during the thirties economic depression, it chronicles their witness of the small town's widespread and ugly prejudice, ignorance and bigotry. Throughout it all, the children are taught how to distinguish opinion from fact, to respect and love others and to consider other perspectives and ideas.

'To Kill A Mockingbird' tells the tale of Jem and Scout Finch, brother and sister and children of lawyer and all-round good guy Atticus. When a young black man is accused of the rape of a white woman, Atticus agrees - amidst tremendous controversy - to defend the accused in the town's court of law. In spite of his brilliant performance in the courtroom, and the overwhelming evidence against the white family's accusations, the defendant is found guilty. He is later shot dead while in prison.

Against this dark backdrop, 'Mockingbird' nonetheless succeeds in producing some beautifully light and moving moments, such as the children's growing friendship with their reclusive neighbour, Boo Radley. The young daughter, Scout, offers some truly tender and insightful commentary on the nature of intolerance and close-mindedness. In its place, her own example is one of genuine inquisitiveness, and an eagerness to learn.

Lee's writing is excellent, as it weaves from one interwoven part of the story to the next. Along the way, we meet a cornucopia of different characters and viewpoints. Each is brought to life through context and vivid descriptions.

Above all, Harper Lee's masterpiece is a story of growth and process, even in the most infertile of environments. Thought-provoking and inspiring.