- Author: Kathryn Stockett
- Amazon link
This book is about the plight of black maids working for aristocratic white women in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960s. I had noticed how sticky this book was in the NY Times Bestseller list and had read the many positive reviews on Amazon, but decided to wait for the paperback, so I wouldn't have to lug a huge book around. However, the book is so popular that the paperback didn't make it to amazon for a long while and I finally got tired of waiting and caved in to buy the hardcover.
The book is narrated by three of the main characters: Skeeter the idealistic white woman, Aibileen and Minny the two principal black maids with widely different characteristics. Aibileen is the mature, quiet, capable, composed maid who loves looking after kids and will never do anything to upset those around her. Minny on the other hand is a very good cook but is loose lipped and known to speak her mind and is consequently getting in trouble with her employers. The author switches from one to the other with each chapter and I welcomed the change in the perspective depending on who the narrator was. Initially you may find yourself struggling with the maids language, but soon you will get in the flow of things and actually enjoy the words and expressions of the black maids during the time of segregation.
The book really brings out the struggle of African Americans and highlights their plight in the segregation era. It is a bit simplistic at times, but otherwise is a good read. Don't expect any major surprises or deep revelations, but I can assure you that you will be entertained.
No comments:
Post a Comment