44 pages • 1 hour read
The Invention of Wings
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
Charleston, South Carolina • 1800s
2014
Adult
18+ years
920L
Super Short Summary
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is a historical novel set in the 1800s that traces the intersecting lives of abolitionist sisters Sarah and Angelina Grimké, and Sarah’s enslaved maid, Hetty Handful Grimké. Spanning 35 years, it begins with Sarah receiving Handful as a birthday present and ends with Sarah helping Handful and her sister Sky escape enslavement, fulfilling a promise made to Handful’s mother.
Emotional
Inspirational
Challenging
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
374,720 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sue Monk Kidd's The Invention of Wings draws acclaim for its compelling portrayal of two women fighting against slavery and societal constraints, offering rich historical detail and poignant character development. However, some readers feel its pacing lags at times. Overall, it effectively illuminates critical issues through engrossing storytelling and nuanced perspectives.
Who Should Read The Invention of Wings?
A reader who would enjoy The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is typically drawn to historical fiction with strong female protagonists, social justice themes, and intricate character development. Fans of The Help by Kathryn Stockett or Beloved by Toni Morrison will likely find this book equally compelling.
374,720 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
384
Novel • Fiction
Charleston, South Carolina • 1800s
2014
Adult
18+ years
920L
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