To Kill a Mockingbird

            When I was in 8th grade, the book we read for English class was "To Kill a Mockingbird."  The story is about a lawyer, Atticus Finch, his two children, Jem and Scout (Jean Louise), their friend Dill, and other selected townspeople such as creepy Arthur "Boo" Radley.  In the story, Mayella Ewell is murdered and negro Tom Robinson is arrested for it.  Atticus Finch does his best to defend Tom, but in early 20th century Alabama, the somewhat prejudicial people of the town find Tom guilty despite Atticus' valiant effort not only to clear Tom, but also to almost undeniably point the guilty finger at Mayella's father, Bob Ewell.  This should be, I believe, required reading for all American students.  I, for one, very much enjoyed the classic American novel and highly recommend it to all.