Dear Ms. Lee,

I first want to begin with a simple apology for what's ahead. I know you probably would hate someone writing an open letter to you on a popular website, as I know you didn't like to be put in the spotlight, but here it is.

This is a 'thank you' letter. This is an expression of gratitude for bringing us, in my opinion, one of the greatest American novels ever written. Of course, I'm talking about To Kill A Mockingbird.

When I began this book in my high school English class, I must admit I thought this was just going to be another boring classic that every student has to muddle through in order to make the grade. Little did I know, this novel would shape my understanding of equality and acceptance, and ultimately become one of my all-time favorite reads. “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” (My favorite quote.)

I have some specific 'thank yous' that I feel need to be said, some things I should have told you much earlier.

First, thank you for Scout. For writing a girl with substance. A girl that was a bit rough around the edges (like me.)

Thank you for Boo. For showing me that things are not always as they seem, and neither are people.

Thank you for Tom. For writing a man who was confronted with discrimination, racism, and false accusations, but NEVER retaliated. Violence begets violence, like Dr. King says.

Last of all, thank you for Atticus. Thank you so much for Atticus. For writing my hero. It is because of him that I know my passion for justice is valid. It is because of him that I have the courage to stand by my beliefs, in the face of intense opposition.

Thank you for Dill, and Jem, and Calpurnia. Thank you for all of the other characters who made this story what it is. They each brought something unique, and I wish I could spend all day talking about how they have affected me. And, I really think I could.

Your words and characters are special, and your life was as well. Your novel taught me, and so many others, valuable lessons that we will never forget. But, more importantly, we will never forget you.

Rest in Peace, Ms. Lee.