Sarah’s Comments (group member since Jan 08, 2014)

Sarah’s comments from the A Year of Reading Sharon group.

Sara wrote: "I read this book several times in high school yet haven't picked it up since. I've always thought of it as my favorite book, but as I started reading this week I questioned why. Was it because ev..."

Sara, your reaction seems to mirror mine. Being a parent made it a different read for me too!

Michelle wrote: "I have listed or said To Kill a Mockingbird as my favorite book since I read it for the first time as a ninth grader. I went on to major in English and taught To Kill a Mockingbird for over fifteen..."

I agree, Michelle. Every time I come to it, I leave with a new perspective. Although that probably has as much to do with the ways I change, I'm grateful for a book full enough to welcome me over and over.

Chris wrote: "Why do you think she never published another book?"

I guess I've always thought that she just had this one beautiful story to tell. I think we all do...

Charlie wrote: "I'm part way through my first read of the book. I know the story from seeing the movie at different times in my life, so I tend to see the characters as the actors who played the roles on screen...."

Your insight reminds me why I have felt grateful to revisit this book so many times in the classroom: Atticus makes me want to be a better person. And so does Scout. And so does Maudie and Mrs. Dubose. And at the same time, I want Atticus' influence to be stronger, for there to be a different outcome for Tom, for something to CHANGE. Perhaps it's those smallest changes -- the turns of the heart -- that he gives me continued hope for.

This has always been one of my very favorite books. I can read it again and again, always finding something special. Lately, I've been drawn to the last pages of it where Scout finally understands Boo because she sees what he's seen. There's a testament to growing up there that is anchored in the empathy we have for others. It's one of my favorite lesson/reminders about the book.