The Help
>> Wednesday, September 30, 2009 –
books
I stayed up until 1:40 this morning, turning the pages of this book. I could not put it down. The story is set in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960's. It is about the relationships between white women in the South and the black women who cleaned their houses and raised their children. And it is about so much more.
I thought I knew how reading this book would make me feel. But I was wrong. I was pleasantly surprised. The situation back then was so much more complicated than I ever imagined, with hate and love running together in one deep river of emotion. This book explored the lines we draw for ourselves, and the boxes we put people in. It caught me by surprise when it held up a mirror and dared me to confront my own prejudices and preconceived notions. It made me cry. It made me laugh. It made me think...sometimes out loud.
The Help is Kathryn Stockett's first novel, and it is so very good.
Have you read it?
I just finished it, too.
Very full of heartfelt and deep moments. It really made me think!
Blessings, andrea
Looks like a great read and I will check it out...I am finishing up Willa Cather's My Antonia (loving it) Thanks for the great book review. xoxo
I'm really looking forward to reading this. I've been on the "hold" list at the library "forever", but I see when I check the online account I am creeping up closely to the top!! After reading your thoughts on it I'm even more eager to see for myself.
It sounds like a book I would enjoy. I love to hear about what other people are reading.
Thanks so much for the recomendation... I can't wait to read it. Thanks too for your comment on my blog this morning. It is sometimes scary to share words so small that make us vulnerable. I am gratefuyl to know they were an encouragement to you.
peace and blessings, aimee
I have not read the book, but looks like another I'd like to add to my looooong list.
We have Brazilian friends who live near Sao Paulo, and they have "Help." When we've visited them in their home, it's been interesting -- and sometimes uncomfortable -- to watch the dynamics between our friends and their servants. They aren't separated by race -- though Brazil is a huge melting pot of races -- but they are separated very much by social class.
Thanks for the heads-up on the book.
Being from MS, I'm planning to get this and read. I didn't grow up in the sixties, but my mother did, and growing up in the 80s may not have been all that different. Can't wait! Thanks for sharing!
Oh, now I really must read this book which I have been meaning to read! I have heard nothing but good reviews!
pve
Oh thank you for sharing this book...I've added to my must-read list!
I've heard so much about this. All good things.
I haven't heard of this book before, but it sounds like one I would like. Thanks!
I am regularly amazed to discover my prejudices.
Also, I regularly go into reading a book with ideas about what it has to say....and find I'm wrong.
The title even shouts read me. I will have to look for the book- sounds very good. Thanks for sharing my friend. xoo
This is on my list, so it is great to read such a good review.
I love a good book that keeps me up all night. I'll certainly check it out. Hope all's well.
We have the same similarities in books. I have that one on hold at the library and I'm waiting for it to come in.
Another book that I have on hold as well is called, Same Kind of Different and the reviews are that it's better than the Shack but true to life.
I'm anxious to get reading.
I haven't, but you've sold me. I have a few "to read" in the stack right now, but I'll add it to the list.
A great read. I would recommend it too!
Hi Deidra,
Just wanted you to know I referenced your Ebenezer post in my blog today (and linked to it) -- hope that's okay! I probably should have checked with you first -- not sure on all this blogger etiquette yet. But that was 5:30 a.m. so I figured you wouldn't be up yet! :)
Anyway, thanks for sparking some thought on my end with your wonderful Ebenezer post -- I loved it!
It's me again...I thought of another book I just recently read that I believe you will enjoy:
Same kind of different as me by Ron Hall & Denver Moore
I haven't heard of it- perhaps I will add it to my non-fiction possibilities for the year- I'm still trying to decide on one! Thank you for sharing, friend!
Haven’t read it – yet – but based on your recommendation and reaction to it, this book has been added to my To Read list.
I will add this one to my list. Maybe I'll put in a request at the library.
I am a new follower and am loving going through all your posts. This truly is a charming site and for that, I have something for you over at my little blog:
http://5thsister.blogspot.com
reading it and loving it!
I am the manager of a small Christian bookstore. I've been meaning to order this one for myself for a few weeks. Thanks for the reminder!
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