In her second novel, the late Harper Lee (pictured), author of To Kill a Mockingbird, challenges social issues of racial prejudice, and the difficulties that these raise between communities and families. This novel may not become a set school text – and it is unlikely to inspire anyone to become a lawyer – but it is still a captivating read.

The novel has 278 pages of fluid dialogue, with a small amount of narrative. It is, for the most part, easy and engaging; it can even be read comfortably in one sitting.

The plot is centered around the lead character, Scout, and her return to Maycomb, the fictional town in which she was born. She realises that the father she idolised, Atticus Finch, may be racist after all and is overcome by a sense of betrayal. She also has to confront the bigotry of those whom she trusts the most. Yet this is also a story of how Scout is forced to recognise and reconcile her own prejudices.

Author: Harper Lee

£18.99, William Heinemann

The issues raised are not unique to any particular time or place and remain a consideration today. Lee gets you thinking, perhaps with some self-reflection. Few novels are capable of accomplishing that.

Nicholas Dent is a solicitor at Kingsley Napley

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