Way back when I started this project, I voted for 'Mockingbird' as the greatest American novel. First read it all the way back in sixth grade and probably reread it a dozen times since. Each time I've loved it more than the previous time. This book is a serious part of our cultural tapestry and if you haven't read it, you should.
'Mockingbird' is probably the most universally praised book of this century. It suffered some small criticism when it came out as being more of a children's book. Of course, it's young protagonist is part of it's charm. We follow Scout as she grows up and learns about the actions and beliefs of her community. An adult would have been too hardened and cynical to have the same impact. We needed to hear an honest attempt to understand why some folks are quality and others are dirt. That type of lesson is learned young or not at all.
There are many themes in 'Mockingbird' that call your attention, the trial of Tom Robinson being the largest. I want to say something about a somewhat overlooked one, that of Atticus Finch and the importance of being the best father he could be. Atticus is noble in the way that few other characters are (outside of a Hugo novel). He does the right thing in the face of near universal condemnation. He works to treat all people well even in the face of intense provocation. He is the gold-hearted lawyer.
Near the end of the book he is worried that a small cover-up is being commited to help his family and he won't have anything to do with it. He's afraid that a sin will part him from his children and make him unable to look them in the eye. That's the price of his integrity. And he shows that it's worth it.
I voted it as the greatest and I see no reason to change my mind. An all time great book.
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