A lot of people have read this book. In fact, most people I know have. There is little original revelation that I can share. All I can say is I enjoyed it - a lot. From the perspective of someone who is reading to get inspired to write, this book made me really want to have something to say. It wasn't the anti-racist message that touched me, but the quiet pleasure of the children's lives. The details of their day to day living I found beautiful and fun.There could be no Tom Robinson in this book and no Bob Ewell, and I think I would have gotten the message loud and clear just from the lives and interactions of the characters. If I wanted to complain about anything, I'd make Atticus less perfect. But that can be forgiven since it is from a loving daughter's perspective.
This book goes to show, I guess, that good writing is in the small things, not necessarily in the big.
1 comment:
All the good things are in the small things...all the good things in my memory anyways.
I grugingly read the book years ago (b/c WMT didn't have a typical highschool reading list I felt like I missed out in comparison to my sisters' English education) but I ended up enjoying it.
The "race" issue is touchy for me and I have a very difficult time reading books lauded solely on that basis.
For example: the titles of these reviews from the Chapters website tell it all.
A Classic
ReviewerNadia from Ottawa
Date:04/08/2006 2:16:06 PM
"To Kill a Mockingbird" is truly a story that will mesmerize all readers alike, regardless of gender or age. This classic brings about topics such as racism, ignorance and discrimination intertwined with the power of truth, perserverance and faith. The power of this story is surely timeless as the theme will remain relevant for many years to come.
Truly Touching
ReviewerNatalie Champagne from Ottawa, Ontario
Date:01/08/2006 12:05:39 PM
Harper Lee's "To Kill A Mockingbird" is a apt perception of racial discrimination. Set in the United States, it could well be transposed to most any country, breathing life into values such as justice, perseverance, courage, strength, and truth. The story is well-fitted for a high school student to understand, but touches the hearts of all who read it. This masterpiece is a classic to read for generations to come.
Worth Reading
ReviewerCassandra (Employee) from Woodbridge
Date:13/07/2006 2:10:16 PM
This novel is perfect for mature teens just entering high school. It covers many relevant issues such as racism, discrimination, social injustice among others. Set in the South during the1930s, this novel gives the contemporary audience a glimpse into a life very different from today.
(how does a chapters employee from woodbridge know what life is like in the south for ppl today? hm. then again, maybe she does know.)
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I like the writing and the quietness of the book. Like the editor's note which focuses on the theme of human nature and the capacity of love, dignity and concepts of justice and freedom in the American South. Race is not THE issue or theme, it's the reality (the 'given' in the book). I think humanism, rather humanity, is the theme.
And the writing is clear and quiet. In contrast other texts it was great.
I recommend reading "god of small things." it's one of my favourites and also has undercurrents of the same themes albeit in a south asian context and uses humour in beautiful way.
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