To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee This classic novel is set in the 1930s in Maycomb County, Alabama. It follows the story of Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus, who is a lawyer. The book explores themes such as racism, class, and gender roles. It also deals with issues of morality and justice through the trial of Tom Robinson, an African-American man accused of raping a white woman. The novel is written in first person, which allows readers to see the world through Scout's eyes. This perspective provides insight into her character development as she learns about the world around her and grows up. The book also features strong female characters such as Mayella Ewell and Calpurnia, who challenge traditional gender roles. Overall, To Kill a Mockingbird is an important work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today. Its themes are still relevant in modern society, and its powerful storytelling makes it a must-read for anyone looking to understand the complexities of human nature. The Parker Inheritance (Scholastic Gold) by Kelly DiCamillo This novel is set in Florida during the 1920s. It follows the story of Cassie Bowden, who inherits a mysterious mansion from her great-aunt Elizabeth. The book explores themes such as family secrets, love, and forgiveness. The novel features strong female characters such as Cassie and Elizabeth, who challenge traditional gender roles. It also deals with issues of race and class through the experiences of African-American character Calpurnia. Overall, The Parker Inheritance is a heartwarming story that explores important themes while also providing entertainment for readers of all ages. Its engaging characters and richly drawn setting make it an enjoyable read. Go Set a Watchman: A Novel by Harper Lee This novel was published posthumously after the death of Harper Lee in 2016. It is set in the same world as To Kill a Mockingbird, but follows a different storyline. The book explores themes such as memory and identity through the experiences of Scout Finch as she looks back on her childhood. The novel has been met with mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. Some have praised its exploration of Lee's creative process and the development of her characters, while others have criticized it for being too similar to To Kill a Mockingbird. Overall, Go Set a Watchman is an interesting addition to Harper Lee's body of work. While it may not be as impactful as To Kill a Mockingbird, it provides insight into the author's creative process and offers readers a new perspective on her beloved characters. Wolf Hollow by Jackie Woodson This novel is set in New York City during World War II. It follows the story of Annabelle Swift, who moves to Wolf Hollow with her father after her mother dies. The book explores themes such as loss, friendship, and courage through the experiences of Annabelle and her neighbors. The novel features strong female characters such as Annabelle and Tessie, who challenge traditional gender roles. It also deals with issues of race and class through the experiences of African-American character Sammy. Overall, Wolf Hollow is a beautifully written book that explores important themes while also providing entertainment for readers of all ages. Its engaging characters and richly drawn setting make it an enjoyable read. The Truth According to Us: A Novel by Anne Patchett This novel is set in Tennessee during the 1950s. It follows the story of Ada McGrath, who tells her granddaughter a series of stories about her life as a young woman. The book explores themes such as memory and identity through the experiences of Ada and her family. The novel features strong female characters such as Ada and her daughter Fannie, who challenge traditional gender roles. It also deals with issues of race and class through the experiences of African-American character Ruby. Overall, The Truth According to Us is a beautifully written book that explores important themes while also providing entertainment for readers. Its engaging characters and richly drawn setting make it an enjoyable read. Furious Hours: Murder, Fraud, and the Last Trial of Harper Lee by Carolyn Finney Braun This non-fiction book is about the trial of Tom Robinson in Maycomb County, Alabama during the 1930s. It explores the events leading up to the trial, as well as the aftermath. The book also delves into the personal lives of Harper Lee and her family, who were involved in the case. The book has been praised for its thorough research and detailed account of the trial. It provides insight into the racial tensions and class divisions that existed during this time period, as well as the impact they had on the legal system. Overall, Furious Hours is a fascinating read that sheds light on an important piece of American history. Its engaging narrative and detailed research make it a must-read for anyone interested in true crime or social justice issues. Three Times Lucky (Mo & Dale Mysteries) by Stuart Gibbs This novel is set in Australia during the 1960s. It follows the story of Mo Cooper, who moves to a new town with his family after his father dies. The book explores themes such as friendship and loyalty through the experiences of Mo and his friends. The novel features strong female characters such as Mo's friend Dale, who challenges traditional gender roles. It also deals with issues of race and class through the experiences of African-American character Sammy. Overall, Three Times Lucky is a fun and engaging read that will appeal to readers of all ages. Its engaging characters and richly drawn setting make it an enjoyable read. All the Lost Things: A Novel by Kathryn Stockett This novel is set in Mississippi during the 1960s. It follows the story of Sarah Finch, who returns home after her husband dies to confront her past. The book explores themes such as memory and identity through the experiences of Sarah and her family. The novel features strong female characters such as Sarah and her daughter Emily, who challenge traditional gender roles. It also deals with issues of race and class through the experiences of African-American character Calpurnia. Overall, All the Lost Things is a beautifully written book that explores important themes while also providing entertainment for readers. Its engaging characters and richly drawn setting make it an enjoyable read. Whistling Past the Graveyard by Susan Moffett Longmuir This novel is set in North Carolina during the 1960s. It follows the story of Emily, who returns home after her father dies to confront her past. The book explores themes such as memory and identity through the experiences of Emily and her family. The novel features strong female characters such as Emily and her mother Margaret, who challenge traditional gender roles. It also deals with issues of race and class through the experiences of African-American character Ruby. Overall, Whistling Past the Graveyard is a beautifully written book that explores important themes while also providing entertainment for readers. Its engaging characters and richly drawn setting make it an enjoyable read. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen This classic novel is set in England during the early 19th century. It follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet, who falls in love with Mr. Darcy despite their initial misunderstandings. The book explores themes such as class, gender roles, and social status through the experiences of Elizabeth and her family. The novel is written in a witty and engaging style that has made it a beloved classic for over 200 years. Its strong female characters such as Elizabeth and Jane challenge traditional gender roles, while its exploration of issues such as class and social status remain relevant today. Overall, Pride and Prejudice is an important work of literature that continues to resonate with readers around the world.