To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a classic novel that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime. This book was published in 1960 and is a winner of the Pulitzer Prize. This novel is famous for its take on racism, childhood innocence, social inequality and prejudice in the social justice system during a controversial time period.

The novel is split into two parts from the point of view from the main character, Scout Finch, as she narrates the story as an adult. The first part mainly focuses on the childhood aspects of the plot. In part one the reader follows Scout; her brother, Jem; their friend, Dill and their adventures in the summer as they uncover rumors of the infamous Boo Radley. While Scout is in school she and Jem learn life lessons from their father the lawyer Atticus Finch. Part one ultimately sets up the storyline for the more controversial second part.

The plot thickens in part two, and the themes start to peek through the pages. Most of the meaningful scenes take place in these last chapters. This includes the famous courtroom scene, in which Atticus gives one of the most powerful speeches in literature history. The speech is Atticus addressing the Jury for his closing argument. He adds in points coming from both his opinion, religion, and common sense to try and convince them to find the defendant innocent.

Because of this impactful piece of writing, Lee is considered a phenomenal author. We see heavier topics and events take place in part two that give importance to the conclusion of themes including acceptance and loss of innocence as well as a way for Scout to reflect on the things she learned while growing up in the town of Maycomb, Ala..

Overall To Kill a Mockingbird is a fascinating and inspiring story that we would definitely recommend. Although it is known that high schools already have their students read this novel as part of a curriculum, reading it on your own time would certainly not be a waste. This is a stunning book that we would give five out of five stars.