Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson

The parallels between this memoir and To Kill A Mockingbird should be immediately apparent; social justice lawyer Bryan Stevenson has even been described as a ‘real-life’ Atticus Finch. Our reviewer writes that the book, ‘ presents a scathing exposé of the inequalities, racial bias and discrimination that has characterised the US justice system, most notably in the South’. It’s a sobering read for anyone who thinks we’ve moved past the issues Harper Lee explores in Mockingird.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

I only read this classic coming-of-age story for the first time last year and loved it. While reading, I found myself immersed in Brooklyn, 1912 – a place depicted brilliantly by Betty Smith – while Francie Nolan’s changing perspectives of herself and the world around were utterly heartfelt. Similarly to Mockingird, Francie has a close relationship with her father who inspires her to live her life well, despite struggling to fight off his own demons.

The Tiger’s Wife by Téa Obreht

Atticus Finch is one of the most memorable fathers in literature and, while it’s a little left-field, I’d recommend you try this prize-winning novel for an equally wonderful grandfather. Having been inspired to follow in her grandfather’s steps and become a doctor, Natalia is bewildered when she learns of his death under mysterious circumstances and struggles to make sense of his final days in relation to the man knew. The Tiger’s Wife is an extraordinary book.

Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones

In Mockingird, Harper Lee skilfully balances the innocence of children against the horrors of racism without slipping into a didactic tone. For a book similarly skilful, I recommend you seek out Mister Pip. Set against the backdrop of the civil war on Bougainville Island during the early 1990s, this fable-like novel about the importance of storytelling is powerful. (Though, I also recommend you avoid the film which has none of the subtlety of the book.)

Notes from No Man’s Land: American Essays by Eula Biss

This essay collection is a fascinating and thoughtful examination of race in America. Plus, Biss (who is my favourite author I’ve discovered this year) sounds exactly how I imagine an older and wiser Scout may sound herself. As with Just Mercy, this book is another reminder to view Mockingird as being relevant today.

Jasper Jones by Craig Silvey

Jasper Jones has been called an Australian To Kill A Mockingird, and with good reason. There are plenty of comparisons to be made – racial tension, a mysterious recluse, innocent children – while the narrator, Charlie, goes so far as to cite Harper Lee. As an added incentive, this cross-over (young adult and adult) book is currently being adapted for the screen.