Sad news - Harper Lee, author of To Kill A Mockingbird, has passed away at age 89. I love this story - it's a powerful message of doing the right thing even if there's enormous challenge in it. Even if you're not sure you'll win this one battle. Your attempt is what matters.

Yes, it's a memorable, powerful and inspirational book, with writing that pulls you right into it. It's not preachy, but you're left feeling as thought you have met a brave and decent human being.

This is one of my favorite stories about the filming of "To Kill a Mockingbird." Harper Lee based the character of Atticus Finch on her father. When she visited the set and saw Gregory Peck dressed as Atticus, she was astonished. "He looks just like my father," she said, "right down to his little potbelly." Peck, slightly chagrined, replied, "That's no potbelly, Harper. That's great acting."