Some negroes lie, some are immoral, some negro men are not be trusted around women - black and white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men.

Dill said striking a match under a turtle was hateful. “How do you know a match don't hurt him?” “Turtles can't feel, stupid,” said Jem. “Where you ever a turtle, huh?

Southern lawyers don't read novels much.

To be a serious writer requires discipline that is iron fisted. It's sitting down and doing it whether you think you have it in you or not. Everyday. Alone. Without interruption. Contrary to what most people think, there is no glamour to writing. In fact, it's heartbreak most of the time.

Whatever she says to you, it’s your job not to let her make you mad.

I know now what he was trying to do, but Atticus was only a man. It takes a woman to do that kind of work.

Before Jem looks at anyone else he looks at me, and I’ve tried to live so I can look squarely back at him.