To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee

My favorite out of the top ten as determined by the editors of Random House. Deals with racism, growing up, and prejudice in general. When I saw the movie, I thought that Gregory Peck did an excellent job as Atticus Finch - but after reading the book, I feel that he didn't do justice to the character. Atticus Finch is the quintessential Male Christian Role model - tolerant, chaste, turn the other cheek, walk two extra miles when asked for 10 yards.

He is so nobly strong that he is chosen as a surrogate by a society morally unable to do what is right due to its own failure. His nature is so well known and trusted that he is the one chosen, and accepted, to do what is right. He is the quintessential father-role-model.

The movie and Peck fail by somehow mainstreaming and humanizing Finch's character. I would rather have Finch as a father than Peck. Or as Peck playing Finch.

I strongly recommend reading the book, especially after having watched the movie. Ms. Lee did a wonderful job. Hollywood lacks the character to match her effort.