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SIGNED/Handwritten by Harper Lee, "I'm not a collector (of anything) but I have, as you may guess, great interest in books. Firsts is absolutely first-rate!" Scarce ALS, one page, 8.5 x 11, January 1, 1997. Handwritten letter to Robin Smiley, offering thanks for an issue of Firsts: The Book Collector's Magazine which featured a cover story on To Kill a Mockingbird. In full: "Thank you for your most kind letter and for my copy of Firsts. I must say that a bookseller friend sent me a copy of the article -- an item rare in itself for its generosity -- but I had not seen the entire magazine. This copy will be the first of many Firsts, I hope, because I'm subscribing immediately. I'm not a collector (of anything) but I have, as you may guess, great interest in books. Firsts is absolutely first-rate!" Below the author's signature and to the left, she adds: "Happy New Year!" Accompanied by a copy of the December, 1996 issue of Firsts Magazine, mentioned by Ms. Lee, featuring a cover…

"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee is a coming-of-age novel set in the racially segregated Southern United States during the 1930s. Narrated by Jean Louise "Scout" Finch, it follows her childhood experiences in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, where her father, Atticus Finch, a principled lawyer, defends Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, Mayella Ewell. Scout, along with her brother Jem and their friend Dill, becomes engrossed in the trial and witnesses the deep-seated racism and prejudice prevalent in their community. Despite Atticus' compelling defense and evidence proving Tom's innocence, the deeply ingrained racial bias leads to Tom's unjust conviction. Throughout the novel, Lee weaves a tapestry of themes such as racial injustice, moral growth, empathy, and the loss of innocence. Atticus serves as a moral compass, imparting valuable lessons about courage, integrity, and standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. The children also encounter the reclusive Boo Radley, a neighbor shrouded in mystery and superstition. Through their curiosity and empathy, they come to realize Boo's humanity, challenging the prejudices and preconceived notions within their society. Lee's eloquent narrative captures the complexities of human nature and societal norms, examining how prejudice and ignorance can breed injustice. The novel poignantly illustrates the harsh realities of racism while advocating for empathy and understanding. "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a timeless masterpiece, celebrated for its poignant portrayal of moral courage, the loss of innocence, and the resilience of the human spirit. It remains a powerful indictment of social inequality and a testament to the enduring importance of compassion and empathy in confronting prejudice and injustice.

The first edition dust jacket shows $3.95.