To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird, a masterpiece written by Harper Lee is one of my personal favorites and a book that I happen to have read just recently. I believe it is a spectacular book not just because of its content, but the significant life lessons the novel teaches its leaders. To Kill a Mockingbird contains valued life lessons, a breathtaking plot, and a unique glimpse of the southern culture during the Great Depression, a time not only based in the heart of racism, but a time when families struggled to discover opportunities and wealth. Based in Maycomb County, Alabama, Harper Lee allows Scout Finch, the child of Atticus Finch and sister of Jem Finch, to lead the reader on a journey through the 40’s and the Depression. In many ways, Harper Lee allows the the reader to observe a snapshot in time that the reader has never experienced nor likely ever experience. By allowing the novel to be seen through the eyes of a child, more opinions and information is provided that a mature adult may not admit. When Scout explains the lives of Walter and the Cunningham family, she openly admits that they are taken by the Depression, stating that Walter, “...didn’t forget his lunch, he didn’t have any. He had none today nor would he have any tomorrow or the next day. He had probably never seen three quarters together at the same time in his life.” (20) In many ways, To Kill a Mockingbird contains a unique view of an important time in American history that is unlike any other piece of its kind. Harper Lee also allows her characters to teach readers valuable life lessons, seen later in the plot. As the story begins to reach its climax, Maycomb County is upturned by a simple accusation that changes the lives of anyone who learns the tale. Mayella Ewell, the daughter of a poor drunk man, Bob Ewell, is supposedly raped by an innocent African American man, belonging to the name of Tom Robinson. Atticus is chosen to defend Tom Robinson in court, and accepts the job, despite the backlash from the racist community in which he lives. Atticus and his family face various obstacles from Atticus’s decision, even receiving threats, but Atticus refuses to back down. When asked why he refuses to back down to the challenge of defending Tom, Atticus replies, “Because I could never ask you to mind me again. Scout, simply by the nature of work, every lawyer gets at least one case in his lifetime that affects him personally. This one's mine, I guess. You might her some ugly talk about it at school, but do one thing for me if you will: you just hold your head high and keep those fists down.” (76) By making this statement, Atticus teaches readers to always stick to always support what they believe is right, regardless of how it may be perceived by others. It is life lessons like these that Harper Lee earns my respect towards her work, but no story can become a masterpiece without an excellent plot. Personally, I found To Kill a Mockingbird gripping and hard to put down, thanks to its twists and turns throughout the adventure better known as the story. Tom Robinson is eventually found guilty by a racist, biased jury, and sent to jail, where he soon attempts to escape, dying in the act. Bob Ewell also finds his life taken when he is killed while attempting to harm Jem and Scout. All in all, the Finch family turns out alright, as Atticus Finch made sure of it. I have learned to envision Atticus as a fictional role model to me, as I respect him not only for not only his impactful philosophies, but his commitment to his family and the things that are important to him. When Jem was struck by Bob Ewell and unconscious, Scout explains that Atticus, “...turned out the light and went into Jem’s room. He would be there all night, and he would be there when Jem waked up in the morning.” (281) In conclusion, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a fantastic novel, containing a unique glimpse into the Great Depression, significant life lessons, and a gripping plot. Harper Lee’s masterpiece is unique, interesting, and unlike any piece of its kind.