Like so many, I have some grave misgivings about the whole new Harper Lee novel happening.

Worst case, it could potentially damage the enduring legacy of some of the finest characters in American literature, and the reputation of the author herself (also because of the publishing of this work in its unedited state).

Still, this kind of publishing of uncovered "lost" material has become standard practice posthumously, so I guess there really isn't a reason it shouldn't happen while the author is still alive.

Given the towering significance of To Kill a Mockingbird, and the enduring respect it commands, I really hope for the best.  The original editor was certainly right to request a novel dealing purely with Scout's childhood.  Worst case, I guess it will be forgotten in a few years, and become a footnote to that masterpiece.  We'll soon know...

Labels: Literature, Sketchbook