LESSON #1. The only way to understand the other side is to GO to the other side — and take a walk!
This is a lesson that Atticus teaches Scout when she’s not so good at getting along with others. Solid advice.
LESSON #2. You’re living in this world right here and right now. Make *that* better.
Another Atticus classic. He’s a little disillusioned with the way some of his fellow townspeople are behaving.
LESSSON #3. The simplest gesture can be the hugest gift.
There’s a part in the story when it seems like it might be dangerous for the main character, Atticus Finch, to safely live in his own town. Instead of giving up hope on the entire town, they decide to just trust the town to do right and not hurt Atticus.
LESSON #4: Privilege is real. From race to baking cakes. Sometimes you’re born into it, and sometimes you’re born with it.
This is just a tiny part of Atticus’s epic closing speech in the trial of Tom Robinson. He speaks at great length about what justice we expect in America and the kind of justice we get if we don’t acknowledge some human imperfections and biases. It’s so relevant.
LESSON #5. Sometimes the truth can’t save you.
It’s not a quote but an unfolding of the story that really drives this home.
In the video below, one mother describes reading the book to her young children and the way they react upon learning this hard lesson.
It’s a beautiful and bittersweet ode to one of America’s classics.
And on a lighter note, who isn’t a forever fan of Scout Finch’s awesomely timeless ham costume?!
Love this book. Love this movie. So. Good.
