Describe Miss Maudie Atkinson. Is she similar to other women in Maycomb? What do the children think of her?

Miss Maudie Atkinson is one of the Finches' neighbors and an old family friend. She is one of the more individual characters in Maycomb, being very much a free spirit who likes to do her own thing. She certainly doesn't fit the traditional mold of a refined Southern lady, especially not by Aunt Alexandra's elevated standards. An avid gardener, she spends a lot of time wearing overalls, making Scout feel like she is a kindred spirit. Another thing that sets Miss Maudie apart from most other women in Maycomb—indeed, most other people there—is her lack of prejudice and racial bigotry. This is another positive character trait that endears her to Scout and Jem.
Maudie stands out among the adults of Maycomb as being very friendly towards the Finch children. Her lack of conventionality means that she has a natural empathy with Scout and Jem; she understands them in a way that no one else does. The children are, therefore, naturally drawn towards her.