To Kill a Mockingbird - Vocabulary, Allusions and Idioms

Harper Lee's novel is the fourth most taught piece of literature in the United States (preceeded only by Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, and Huckleberry Finn). The reasons for its popularity are obvious, including relevant themes and memorable characters. It is not, however, always the easiest book to read. After all, in order to reveal those themes and recognize those characters, students must first make their way through a maze of words, allusions, and idioms that are not always recognizable, especially to students with limited English proficiency.