To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee
First published in 1960, To Kill a Mockingbird has proven to be an enduring classic. Set within the rural South of the 1930s and presented through the eyes of a young girl, Scout Finch, the novel explores such themes as justice and courage with honesty, innocence, and humor. This setting is the perfect backdrop for Scout and her brother's determined quest to meet a mysterious—and seemingly sinister—neighbor, and for their father's courageous attempt to defend an African American falsely accused of raping a white woman. Reality harshly confronts Scout and her brother as they follow the trial and verdict of their father's client. At the same time, courage sounds the final note in the unexpected actions of the mysterious neighbor.
1. Introduction to the Great Depression of America
2. Review of Racism in America, as it relates to the novel
3. Vocabulary
4. Strategic Reading
5. Literary Concepts
6. Quiz
7. Related Readings: a. Thanksgiving Visitor by Truman Capote, b. Hidden Songs of the Secret Soul by Bob Greene
