It was announced earlier this week that there will be a “To Kill a Mockingbird” sequel, penned by Harper Lee, the writer of the original literary classic that's sold more than 18 million copies and has been printed in 40 different languages.
There are plenty of lessons “To Kill a Mockingbird” has taught anyone who attended sophomore English. From how the criminal justice system works to which values can lead to a fullfilling life, the book is stacked with themes, motifs and lessons that make it perfect for American classrooms.
The book also includes a unique set of character names that aren’t easily forgettable. The main characters Atticus, Scout and Jem are just a small dose of that.
These names may serve as inspiration for your baby's name, too. According to The Huffington Post, parents in 2015 will be giving their children powerful, unique and oddball names to set them apart from the rest of the pack.
Given that uncommon and unique baby names are becoming more popular, there’s little room for doubt that this literary classic has some names you may want to offer your baby.
Here are 15 character names from “To Kill a Mockingbird” you can use for your child. The characters aren’t always the greatest role models, but their names are unique enough to make your baby sound cool and sophisticated in the playpen.
Scout
Scout was the main character of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” As a narrator reflecting on her past, Scout retells the events of Tom Robinson’s trial and her early childhood.
Jem
Jeremy “Jem” Finch is Scout’s older brother who finds intrigue in the ongoing events of the book because of his mature understanding. As he grows throughout the book, his interest in events climbs.
Atticus
Atticus was Scout and Jem’s father. Atticus is an attorney who defended Robinson, a black man on trial for charges of rape. Seen somewhat as the hero of the book, he defends Robinson and tackles some of the book’s protagonists.
Dolphus
Dolphus was a jaded white man who preferred to live near black communities. He pretends to be an alcoholic so people will accept his behavior. Sometimes, he says, you have to pretend to be something you're not so that people will understand who you are.
Link
This isn’t the video game character you know and love. This Link owns cotton fields in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” He defends Robinson in the trial and is an ally to Atticus and the Finches.
Dill
Dill is the troubled best friend of Jem and Scout. He doesn’t have a loving family, which is why he takes so much comfort in the relationship he has with Jem and Scout. He’s also the biggest activist for getting the book’s mysterious Boo Radley to come out of his house.
Boo
This name comes from Arthur “Boo” Radley, a mysterious and reclusive character in the novel who hides in his home until the end, when he saves Scout and Jem from being murdered by Bob Ewell, the book’s biggest villain.
Mayella
Mayella is Bob Ewell’s daughter. The 19-year-old, desperate for love, tries to seduce Robinson, which doesn’t sit right with her father, who calls the sheriff and has the black man arrested on false charges. Mayella’s actions set off the chain of events that create the major trial featured in the book.
Burris
Burris is Ewell’s son. He’s one of the main antagonists in the novel and often points out how he repeated the third grade three times.
Heck
No, this isn’t a substitute swear word. It’s the name of Mr. Heck Tate, a friend of Atticus and the sheriff of Maycomb County. Like his friend Atticus, Heck doesn’t show any signs of prejudice toward black men. He also helps Radley at the end of the book remain a recluse, despite being a hero for saving the Finch children.
Braxton
Want your child to be a journalist? Braxton might be the name to go with since he’s the novel’s reporter. However, Braxton is racist and often disagrees with whatever Atticus says.
Calpurnia
Calpurnia, a black woman, is the Finch’s housekeeper. She’s also the keeper of a beautiful name. In the novel, she offers love and discipline to the Finch children, much in the same way parents would. She’s kind and often receives high remarks from Atticus.
Zeebo
Zeebo is Calpurnia’s oldest son. He leads hymns at the local black community church and is somewhat of a leader. He learned to read with the help of the Bible.
Lula
Lula is a black woman who doesn’t like white people. She’s seen as a troublemaker and often disagrees with church teachings.
Eula
Eula’s got the most unique job in the novel; she’s a telephone operator. She announces the on-going events of the county. And she controls the fire alarm. That’s hot.
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Twitter: @herbscribner