Harper Lee was born April 28, 1926, and was the pen name of Nelle Harper Lee, an American author who won the Pulitzer Prize for her 1960 novel To Kill a Mockingbird.
The book, which explores themes of racism and morality, became a classic of modern American literature and helped give voice to the struggles of African Americans in the 1930s Deep South. In 1999, Library Journal named it the “Best Novel of the Century.”
To Kill a Mockingbird is recommended for middle school and older. Set in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, the story is told through the perspective of 6-year-old Scout Finch as her father, the principled lawyer Atticus Finch, defends a Black man, Tom Robinson, who has been falsely accused of a terrible crime.
Look for this recommendations and other books at Knox County Online Library or your local independent bookstore each week.
This weekly column delves into the enchanting world of children’s literature, spotlighting both beloved classics and emerging voices. I am excited to share my love of children’s literature with families seeking ways to encourage their young ones to develop a love of reading as well. Send comments or questions to Susan Espiritu at susan@knoxtntoday.com.
Harper Lee was from Monroeville, Alabama, as was Truman Capote. Monroeville is situated 88 miles up I65 North of Mobile. How this small town (around 3k at the time) managed to produce such writers is a mystery, other than there wasn’t much to do in this lazy Southern town, and that Lee & Capote were neighbors and collaborated freely. And then you have Hank Williams, the greatest Country Singer/Songwriter ever, just 35 miles NE in Georgiana. Georgiana also produced Janie Ledlow Shores, prominent Alabama State Supreme Court Justice, and the first Woman to hold that office. Something in the air/water? I drive by those city exit signs on my way back home to Tennessee.