[Poll Tally][Flurries October]To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee - 5 stars and hearts

[Theresa]

I have read this before -- maybe 2 or 3 times -- but it has been a couple of decades easily. I of course love the movie with Gregory Peck, which I recently watched again. After Go Set a Watchman was published, I intended to re-read this, even bought a nice new print copy a couple years ago, but it took my friend Book Concierge to suggest I listen to the audio sublimely read by Sissy Spacek to get me actually to pick it up, albeit in audio book form.

It was wonderful. Definitely a book that stands the test of time and is deserving of being a classic, on every must read list in existance. So much more than I remember, beautifully read. I have already recommended the audio to several people. For me, the part of the novel I most deeply remember, and which stood out for me once again (which does not usually happen on re-reads, especially ones where I am much older than when first read) is the plotline involving Arthur 'Bo' Radley. I always both feel the initial fear and discomfort felt by Scout et al. then acceptance and ultimately his participation in the finale, leading to a permanent understanding and bond that is never really expressed directly, but you know is there. Of all the many enduring and powerful themes, the one of tolerance and acceptance as necessary to one's life and interactions is always strongest for me.

But of course, the lawyer in me just loves, and puddles up, at "Stand up, Jean Louise. Your father is passing." A moment of respect any lawyer would be proud to achieve.