To mark World Book Day on Saturday, the Irish Times asked some well known writers to
nominate one book which they would give to someone.
Much to my surprise 'To Kill A Mockingbird' was not included. Harper Lee's story of
childhood innocence and wonder told against a backdrop of bigotry, injustice
and prejudice remains a classic half a century after it was written.
The first copy I read was a paperback picked up in a secondhand bookshop
soon after I had finished college. I loved the story of Scout and Jem, the
mysterious Boo, their father Atticus and a trial which showed how
justice is not always served in court.
When this hardback edition came out to celebrate the book's 50th anniversary
I couldn't resist it, even though I am normally happy to read paperbacks.