To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

This year marks the 50th anniversary of this American classic, so I thought it was time to finally read "To Kill a Mockingbird."

This is one of the greatest books I have ever read; it is flawless. I have nothing unfavorable to say about this book. It's perfect.

Using Scout to narrate the book is brilliant. It allows the reader to see Maycomb through her naive eyes, largely ignorant of the classism by which her town lives. Well, that's a little unfair to Scout. She isn't ignorant exactly, but she is a child and all the classism seems unnecessary and silly to her; she can't understand her Aunt's feelings about people. People are just people, their ways are their ways.

I was so enraptured by this book. Lee is an amazing storyteller. I felt I got to know all of the eccentricities and nuances of the people of Maycomb, from Miss Maudie to Culpurna to the Ewells. Lee makes you feel like you are a resident of Maycomb, like you've lived there you're whole life, grown up with a fear of Mrs. Dubose and a consuming curiosity about Boo Radley.

This book is beautiful and insightful and a truly fantastic read. Absolutely read this book. Now! Go get it!