Finally. I finally liked a book that I picked!
Not that I hated my other selections, but I certainly didn't L-O-V-E them either. I could read them and put them down, and not pick them up again for days without wondering what was going to happen next, or why that character did what they did.
Set in Jackson, Mississippi, during the 1960's, 'The Help' was one book I did not want to put down. Kathryn Stockett spins the story of two African-American women, Aibileen Clark and Minny Jackson, and one white woman just out of college, Eugenia 'Skeeter' Phelan. We hear the story through their three voices, which are all very distinct and compelling in their own unique ways. Aibileen with her kindness wisdom and dignity. Minny with her spitfire opinions, determination and bravery. Skeeter with her humor, independence and naivete.
Skeeter comes up with the idea to compile stories from the behind-the-scenes lives of the maids who work in the homes of wealthy white folk in Jackson. A project that is as controversial and taboo as they come at that point in USA history. Despite this, Aibileen bravely steps up to tell her story to Skeeter, followed by Minny.
Don't dismiss this book thinking it will be dry or historical. It is alive, passionate, humorous, and will help you find a better understanding for injustices that have been suffered in our country.
You may also find yourself with an unaccountable longing for fried chicken, biscuits and coca-cola.
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