Kristina— Good question. Here is my explanation: it’s not about the setting of Mockingbird. It’s about the characterization of Atticus, as Jen’s father. He realizes that at some point Jen will want a gun, much like he did as a boy. However, Atticus makes the rules and demands Jen follow them BEFORE he allows him to put his hands on a gun. This is a far cry from the parents in this article (and sadly, far too many parents in America today) . I agree with Ms. Ferguson overall point that a mother is being held accountable and that although she is at fault, she is certainly not alone. The father and the school administrators also are to blame. How come none of these adults took the gun from the boy’s backpack!?