Summary:
In “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett, we follow the lives of three women in 1960s Jackson, Mississippi as they challenge the societal norms of race and class and tell the stories of the African American maids who work for the white families in their community.
Book Genre:
Historical Fiction
Main Topic of the Book:
The main topic of the book is the deeply entrenched racial segregation and discrimination in the South during the 1960s and the role of women in challenging and changing these norms.
Key Ideas:
- Racial discrimination and inequality
- The role of women in the civil rights movement
- Power dynamics between employers and maids
- The importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of opposition
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different main character and their perspective on the events unfolding in Jackson.
Part 1 – Aibileen Clark
Aibileen is an African American maid who has raised 17 white children, but has just lost her son in a tragic accident. She is recruited by Skeeter, a white woman who wants to write a book about the lives of maids, to share her experiences and struggles of working for white families.
Part 2 – Minny Jackson
Minny is Aibileen’s close friend and a sassy and outspoken maid who has a reputation for talking back to her employers. She becomes the subject of gossip in Jackson and is eventually fired by her boss, Hilly, who is one of the most influential women in the community.
Part 3 – Skeeter Phelan
Skeeter is a recent college graduate who has returned to her hometown of Jackson and struggles to conform to the expectations of her friends and family. She is determined to tell the stories of the maids and expose the racism and injustice they face, despite the potential consequences.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of empathy and understanding in breaking down racial barriers
- The courage and impact of standing up against discrimination and fighting for social justice
- The lasting impact of strong relationships and alliances, even in the face of adversity
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Kathryn Stockett was born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, where she drew inspiration for “The Help” from her own experiences growing up in the 1960s. She was also influenced by her relationship with Demetrie, the African American maid who helped raise her. Stockett later moved to New York City to pursue a career in publishing. “The Help” is her debut novel and has been adapted into a film.
Target Audience:
The target audience for “The Help” is adult readers, particularly those interested in historical fiction, women’s stories, and racial and social issues.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
“The Help” was published by Penguin Books on February 10, 2009.