Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

What can I say about this book that hasn’t already been said a thousand times, in a thousand different ways in various languages throughout the world? I struggled with whether to even write a review at all � the task seemed daunting, not to mention unnecessary. This is, after all, one of those classics considered sacred by literary critics past, present, and we can only assume future. It makes every list you can think of, including the one for banned books (and you know only the best show up there).

But that in itself isn’t what impresses me � it’s that To Kill a Mockingbird is one of those magical books that readers cherish for years (despite being made to read it in school). Readers young and old carry it in their hearts, keeping dog-eared copies around the house that show the obvious wear and tear that only the truly well-loved, well-thumbed novel shows. There are favorites, and then there are favorites, you know? And Mockingbird is the latter kind.

There’s a lot at work in its pages to make it so. Harper Lee’s lyrical prose for one thing (oh, how it sings, hanging so sweetly on each and every lazy southern drawl). Then there’s the book’s heart and quiet dignity (like Atticus Finch himself), that any weaknesses (which won’t be pointed out by me) are forgiven because it’s a story that is perfect in its imperfections. It’s a simple book really, and that is part of its charm too. The best stories with the most powerful messages don’t need to be complicated. Their truths are so universal, so inarguably human, that they don’t need to rely on a lot of literary “tricks� and hocus-pocus.

Atticus Finch is our moral compass � a man who cherishes his community, his profession, his friends, and above all else, his children. Fairness, Courage, Patience, Loyalty, Love, Empathy. That’s Atticus, and these qualities the best of what humanity is capable of when it lets itself.

Lee gives us the world through the innocent eyes of a child, and we are there when that innocence is stripped away. Scout and Jem come to know the complicated, contradicting ways of their small, insular community, but by so doing learn something just as true about the larger world. The reality is harsh, the truth is cold, but Atticus’s warmth and strength exists to comfort them and inspire hope. We don’t stop needing that comfort and hope as we grow older; if anything, we need it more. And books like this one exist to give it I figure.

One last thing; in case you thought this novel heavy and “serious� with a capital S because of its themes of racial, gender, and class inequality, have another think. This novel is supremely funny in parts (I laughed out loud in numerous places). Lee offers delightful insight into small town minds, manners and sensibilities revealing the signature buffoonery and hypocrisy of a particular time and place. I love Dill � he had me screaming with laughter, and has made me consider whether he’s the inspiration behind Irving’s Owen Meany character. I know I don’t have to say it but I will anyway: highest possible recommendation.