Final Thoughts on "To Kill a Mockingbird"

I was certainly glad to read this book. It was a beautifully written story describing life in the old South from the perspective of a child with insight and honesty. What I appreciated most about this novel was the relationship of Atticus to his children, Scout and Jem. At a time and place when racial predjudice was normal and hate crimes were common, Atticus took an attittude which was different from the majority. He taught Scout and Jem that justice and compassion for fellow human beings regardless of race or wealth should shape their thoughts and behaviors. He believed in these ideals despite opposition from the Maycomb townsfolk and he took action according to them. Guarding Tom Robinson on the eve of his trial and refusing to retaliate when Bob Ewell spat in his face are two examples. I am glad that this novel will be available to many young, future readers. I hope that the superior human qualities of love, courage and equality in the landscape of predjudice and hate which it describes will live on forever.