The letter informs parents that their 8th grade child will be reading and discussing To Kill a Mockingbird over the next couple months. It explores themes of growing up, prejudice, and courage in Depression-era South. Parents are asked to monitor their child's reading and ensure understanding of the text, as the majority of the literature grade depends on comprehension of the novel. The assigned book is school property and must be returned in good condition or replaced. In April, the class will see a performance of the play in Harper Lee's hometown.

1. Little Flower School
6495 Lillian Highway
P.O. Box 3009
Pensacola, FL 32516
(850) 455-4851
October 29, 2009
Dear Parents/Guardians:
Beginning next week, your child will be reading Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. This
American classic explores the trials of growing up, prejudice, and courage. The innocence of eight-
year-old tomboy Scout Finch fades as she encounters racism and ignorance in the Depression-torn
South. Please note that this novel contains language that reflects the racially divided climate
during the 1930s. Your child is about to embark on an extraordinary albeit challenging journey, as
the book is divided into two lengthy sections—a Southern drama and a courtroom drama. We will
be reading and discussing this novel for the next couple of months. It is imperative that you
monitor your child’s reading at home. I strongly encourage you to ask your child questions to
ensure his/her understanding of the text. The majority of your child’s literature grade will depend on
his/her understanding of the novel and its themes and literary techniques.
The To Kill a Mockingbird novel assigned to your student is Little Flower property and is on loan to
your child. Your child may underline passages or make notes in the book as long as notes are
written with a pencil. If the novel is not returned in the same condition in which it was given, a new
book must be purchased in order for Little Flower to have an adequate supply for future readers.
On April 21st, the eighth grade is scheduled to see the nationally renowned play “To Kill a
Mockingbird,” which is performed in Monroeville, Alabama, (Harper Lee’s hometown) every
spring. I appreciate your cooperation and involvement in your child’s education.
Sincerely,
Ms. Ratliff
sratliff@pensacolalfs.org
455-4851 ext. 206
Please acknowledge that you have read this letter by returning the section below.
The signed slip is a part of your child’s homework grade.
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Child’s Name:____________________________________________________________________
Parent’s Name:____________________________________________________________________
To Kill a Mockingbird

2. Date:____________________________________________________________________________
To Kill a Mockingbird