Imagine living in a small Southern town during the Great Depression with no T. This way of life may seem harsh, but the people of Maycomb were able to thrive despite these conditions. To Kill a Mockingbird features the story of a small family living through these times. This novel unlocks the many mysteries and tales of the people of Maycomb. There were few honorable people in Maycomb who were able to keep their faith and stand up for that which they believed in these unjust times. Atticus Finch, father of Scout and Jem, happens to be one of these righteous people. Atticus is a soft-spoken, middle-aged man who wears glasses. He is an extremely intelligent lawyer who was able to support his family with his small income. Many citizens of Maycomb speak highly of Atticus and others despise him because of his decision to defend Tom Robinson, a wrongly accused black man, in court. Atticus treats all people, regardless of race or culture, with respect. He is a superb and loving single father who teaches his children to be accepting and loving towards all other people. Despite his wife's sudden death and having to raise his kids alone with his housemaid, Atticus always handles situations with peace and kindness.
Perhaps Atticus' biggest fans in Maycomb were his children, Scout and Jem. Scout and Jem were raised to have very good manners even though they did not have a mom to teach them. Scout, a frizzy-haired tomboy, and Jem, an adult-like 10 year old boy, are very protective of each other. The Finch kids thoroughly enjoy the outdoors and visiting with their dear neighbor, Mrs. Maudie. They get along except for when Jem decides to act as though he is a parent. Scout and Jem always support their dad's decision to defend Tom Robinson in court. .
One of Scout and Jem's favorite things to do during summer vacation was to explore their neighbor's, Boo Radley's, dilapidated house. In the beginning of To Kill A Mockingbird, Boo Radley was described as an infamous recluse of Maycomb.
