Harper Lee, author of the classic “To Kill a Mockingbird,” shocked the world recently with the news that her second book, “Go Set a Watchman,” will be released on July 14.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” has been her only published novel for 55 years, and it seemed like it would stay that way.

Lee completed “Go Set a Watchman” in the 1950s but never released it, instead releasing “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Scholars knew about Lee’s earlier manuscript, but they thought it was a rough draft for “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

They didn’t know it was a separate story.

Now, “Go Set a Watchman” will follow the now grown-up Scout Finch as she visits her father, Atticus Finch.

It will also include many returning characters from “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

While some people are thrilled to hear that Lee will publish a second book, others are skeptical.

They question whether Lee, who is 88 years old and has poor eyesight and hearing, is fully capable of giving the right to release the novel.

They have also brought up the point that if she wanted to publish the book, she could have done it in the six decades that she had the manuscript.

Lee released a statement through HarperCollins Publishers denying these allegations, but some remain unconvinced.

Despite this seemingly controversial cloud hovering over the release of the novel, readers have shown their eagerness to read the second book.

The novel quickly became the No. 1 bestselling book on Amazon for pre-order.

It is available for pre-order in a Kindle version for $13.59, hardcover for $16.79, and large-print paperback for $27.99.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” won the Pulitzer prize the year of its publication, in 1960.

In 1962, it was made into the film in which Gregory Peck won the Oscar for best actor for his portrayal of Atticus Finch.

Film industry observers are now making a buzz wondering whether “Go Set a Watchman” will make it to the silver screen like its predecessor.

Readers everywhere should check out “Go Set a Watchman” when it’s released and make up their own minds about whether the hype is justified.