To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee has become a pillar of American high schools. This is a classic novel that has inspired many people of all ages. It had a big impact on the way people viewed and treated each other. It is a story that teaches everyone the value of honesty, love, friendship and trust. Every word written in this book has a truly deep meaning. The time period in which the book was written was during the Great Depression of the 1930s. It was set in a small town in Maycomb, Alabama, with people who didn't get along. At that time, there was a lot of segregation within America and between different races. To Kill a Mockingbird is about a family that believes in doing good and being honest. There was a court case that went viral involving a black man who raped a white woman. A white lawyer named Atticus Finch gave his all to defend a black man named Tom Robinson. There was no evidence showing that Tom had raped Mayella Ewell and he was convicted because of his color. When a black person is accused of something, they are immediately accused of guilt. To Kill a Mockingbird should be taught in American high schools because it teaches students about segregation/racism, right from wrong, and courage. Racism and segregation is one of the main points of the entire book. Racism in Maycomb is primarily between whites and blacks. There are a lot of people in Maycomb who are racist because they have a very low opinion of African Americans. People think that black people are untrustworthy and unreliable. Some examples of racist characters are when Mrs. Dubose insulted Jem by saying things about his father and saying that he is worthless like African Americans. Another character is Mr. Ewell when he ...... middle of paper ...... situation, you have to do what is right for you. No one should tell you what to do and how to do it. You have to stand up for what you believe in, like Atticus did with the trial. He fought for everyone and never judged based on race, color or ethnicity. This story helps students understand what life was like back then and how discrimination against people is wrong. The author really teaches the importance of how people should treat each other and how easily people can hurt each other. Racism and segregation are a big problem and they need to change. People need to stop judging and start seeing people for who they are. It is not right to do bad things in life, we must stay strong and start changing racism and separation. Students will see the inspiration that comes from reading this book. To Kill a Mockingbird is the most influential book students will ever read.