To Kill a Mockingbird

Being Canadian I've managed to reach middle age having never read To Kill a Mockingbird. (I haven't even seen the movie!) It was never assigned for summer reading. I have not had to sit through a class and endure questions like “how are the themes of equality explored?”

I think every American Family must have at least one copy of the book on their shelves somewhere. Part of the “You're An American” kit that includes Fleetwood Mac's Rumors and Monopoly. How else do you explain the $9000.00 a DAY in royalties still being handed over to Harper Lee's estate. They must just back up a dump truck every year and backfill schools across the United States with paperback copies.

Despite all that, it still holds up. While the Hitler bit near the end is a bit much, it manages to be a well balanced, beautiful gem of a story that doesn't dissolve into preciousness or heavy handed moralizing. It's a lovely read.