What is To Kill a Mockingbird about?

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is the story about two siblings, Jem and Scout Finch, growing up in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama during the 1930's. The story is told in retrospect by Jean Louise "Scout" Finch, who was six years old when the novel begins. She explains the various events that lead to Jem breaking his arm when he was nearly thirteen-years-old. The story follows two plots. One plot involves the children's discovery of the true identity of their reclusive neighbor, Boo Radley. The other plot involves Jem and Scout's father, Atticus, defending an African American named Tom Robinson. A prejudiced jury wrongfully convicts Tom of raping and beating a white woman named Mayella Ewell. The children lose their childhood innocence after witnessing racial injustice first-hand during the trial. Throughout the novel, both Scout and Jem grow into morally upright individuals who share the same values as their father. Atticus teaches his children important lessons on perspective, respect, courage, and tolerance. The fact that Scout tells the story from her childhood point of view creates an interesting and humorous narrative. Harper Lee explores issues regarding race, religion, society, justice, and education throughout the novel.