The Help by Kathryn StockettBook Description:What perfect timing for this optimistic, uplifting debut novel (and maiden publication of Amy Einhorn's new imprint) set during the nascent civil rights movement in Jackson, Miss., where black women were trusted to raise white children but not to polish the household silver. Eugenia Skeeter Phelan is just home from college in 1962, and, anxious to become a writer, is advised to hone her chops by writing about what disturbs you. The budding social activist begins to collect the stories of the black women on whom the country club sets relies and mistrusts enlisting the help of Aibileen, a maid who's raised 17 children, and Aibileen's best friend Minny, who's found herself unemployed more than a few times after mouthing off to her white employers. The book Skeeter puts together based on their stories is scathing and shocking, bringing pride and hope to the black community, while giving Skeeter the courage to break down her personal boundaries and pursue her dreams.
My Thoughts: Love at first read! I now have a new favorite on my shelves of best books ever. I really enjoyed the story from start to finish. One of my favorite things about a good book is all the detail the author can give on certain subjects. I loved the way Stockett would describe one of the maids cooking and I started craving caramel cakes after reading it. This book takes time to develop the details as well as the story. It alternates writing between three different perspectives and I loved the format. I loved being able to see some of the same events from totally different angles. It kept things entertaining. I would highly recommend this book. Awesome read!
