Melville House Books

Today is the 50th Anniversary of what is now an American classic: Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. First published in 1960, Lee’s debut (and only) novel went on to be a national bestseller, win the Pulitzer, be made into an Oscar-winning movie starring Gregory Peck (sigh) and is now read by almost every elementary school age child.  Not to mention that the fact that its still in print fifty years later is a minor miracle by today’s standards (oh yeah, and its also been published in a zillion languages).

Another great American author, Stephen Colbert (and others) celebrate the novel tonight at Symphony Space, if you’re lucky enough to have gotten a ticket.  Otherwise, just read the book!  Or if you’re a bit lazy, watch the movie!  Although, unfortunately, you can’t stream it instantly on Netflix.  Visit a Blockbuster then? HA.

Harper Lee, who still lives in Monroeville, Alabama, granted a rare interview with the British newspaper the Daily Mail on Sunday.  In honor of the 50th anniversary… Lee offered these few words to the reporter:

“Thank you so much.  You are most kind. We’re just going to feed the ducks but call me the next time you are here. We have a lot of history here. You will enjoy it.”