I Kill the Mockingbird

Gr 5–8—The past year had been an emotional one for 13-year-old Lucy: her favorite English teacher collapsed and died next to her in line at the school cafeteria, and her mother almost died from cancer and is slowly recovering. Through it all, Lucy's friends Elena and Michael have stood by her. Now it's time for summer break and the new English teacher hands out a list of required summer reading. Lucy's favorite, To Kill a Mockingbird, is on the list. Lucy wants everyone to read this great book, and hatches a plan with her friends that will "go viral" in a way far beyond what she could imagine. Meanwhile, Lucy tries not to worry about her mother—it's hard for the teen to believe that her mother, who was once told she had only a few weeks to live, is actually well. Lucy's also coming to the realization that Michael may be more than a friend, and wonders if she's ready for all the challenges that high school will bring. Funny, poignant, and quirky, I Kill the Mockingbird will appeal to today's middle schoolers who are tech-savvy, literate, and idealistic. Acampora has developed likable characters that readers will relate to; they will cheer as Lucy, Elena, and Michael work together and amaze even themselves with their courage and conviction.—Kathy Kirchoefer, Henderson County Public Library, NC