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The Help

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Kathryn Stockett

The Help

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Jackson, Mississippi • 1960s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a 2009 novel set in Jackson, Mississippi, during the early 1960s, focusing on the lives of Black maids working in white households amidst the civil rights movement. The story is told from the perspectives of three women: Aibileen, an older maid; Minny, her outspoken friend; and Eugenia "Skeeter" Phelan, a young white woman who aspires to be a writer and aims to document the maids' stories to reveal the injustices they face. Please note that the book contains depictions of racism and the struggles of Black Americans during the civil rights era.

Emotional

Inspirational

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.6

2,874,948 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Help by Kathryn Stockett offers a compelling narrative with strong character development, focusing on racial tensions in 1960s Mississippi. Reviews praise the engaging storytelling and emotional depth. Criticism centers on clichés and the portrayal of dialect. Despite these issues, it's widely celebrated for tackling important social themes in an accessible manner.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Help?

Readers who would enjoy The Help by Kathryn Stockett appreciate historical fiction focused on social justice and character-driven narratives. Fans of To Kill a Mockingbird or The Secret Life of Bees may find this story engaging, as it explores complex relationships against the backdrop of 1960s Mississippi.

4.6

2,874,948 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Aibileen Clark

A middle-aged maid known for her strong faith and deep care for the children she looks after, especially Mae Mobley. Her writing talent emerges through her habit of crafting heartfelt prayers.

A young woman returning home from college, struggling to fit into Jackson’s social circles while cherishing memories of her childhood maid, Constantine. Skeeter aspires to be a writer and develops a new understanding of those around her.

A maid with a fierce attitude and unmatched cooking skills, known for her sassy demeanor and numerous job terminations. She has a deep friendship with Aibileen and works for Celia Foote.

A woman from a humble background who is outcast by Jackson’s society ladies due to her appearance and mannerisms. She treats her maid, Minny, as a friend rather than an employee.

A mother concerned with appearances, often neglecting her daughter Mae Mobley’s emotional needs. She prioritizes societal acceptance over personal convictions.

The manipulative leader of Jackson’s society ladies, known for enforcing racial boundaries and wielding her influence over others.

Skeeter’s traditional and occasionally critical mother, who values societal norms but reveals moments of vulnerability due to her declining health.

Skeeter’s childhood maid, who profoundly impacted Skeeter’s values, teaching her to question societal norms and be true to herself.

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Jackson, Mississippi • 1960s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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