Walking in Another Man's Shoes: Scout Gains New Perspective

Finding our way through the attack on Jem and Scout reveals what I would call "tight writing." It all works. The clues fit together neatly and believably. Even though the clues all make sense on close study, the story is still surprising. Isn't it a shame that Mockingbird is Harper Lee's only book?




There's something so beautiful about the last few pages of Harper Lee's book, that every time I read them, I am humbled by her storytelling genius. All those seemingly simple childhood events of the novel come together and take on new meaning. Standing on the Radley porch, Scout sees the neighborhood from Boo's perspective, and as she describes the events of the past months, the reader knows that she has achieved a new depth of character as a consequence of this insight. I think all of us understand those moments that affect us in ways that change and shape who we are.



There are several themes which seem to come together as the story closes. Think about how some of these tie in:

• Courage means fighting for what is right, no matter what the cost.


• Most people are likable once you get to know them.


• It is a sin to kill a mockingbird.


• Hypocrisy and prejudice are hard to detect in your own behavior.


• The best way to understand a person is to "stand in his or her shoes."


• Courage means fighting for something even though you are "licked before you even start."


• We often don't fully appreciate those we are closest to.


• Sometimes people are more comfortable with a stereotype than than the truth.


• People can respect each other even if they have differing viewpoints.

Today when you are blogging, be sure to discuss your thoughts on at least one or more of these themes that stand out to you.

I will also ask that you select one of your independent reading books to comment on in terms of themes or lessons. Has any of your reading related to any of the themes, or settings, or character types presented in Mockingbird?

Rest well over spring break. We'll return to conduct a "crime scene investigation" of the attack on Jem and Scout. We'll share notes and prepare for a final "wrap up" of Mockingbird on Tuesday. Happy spring break!