I first read it a couple of years ago. At first I found it hard to get into; the first chapters were pretty boring and rough. I needed to start again a few times because I was having a lot of trouble trying to follow what was going on. However, once the story had hooked me I found it a great book and a great read. Definitely worth getting into.
The movie is pretty good, too. As I Took the Red Pill said, Gregory Peck does Atticus perfectly (pretty much just as I imagined Atticus), and it was Atticus that kept me interested in the story.
I think it's better to save the movie until you've read the book (but this is what I usually think in times like this).
I must admit, however, that I never studied the story in English class, so I most likely know less about it than anyone else.
Keep at it, Rusty. I hope you can enjoy the story like many others have. :)