40 pages • 1 hour read
The Secret Life of Bees
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Book Brief
302
Novel • Fiction
South Carolina • 1960s
2001
YA
14-18 years
840L
Super Short Summary
Set in 1964 South Carolina, The Secret Life of Bees follows Lily Owens, who, together with her caretaker Rosaleen, escapes her abusive father and searches for her deceased mother’s past, leading them to the Boatwright sisters' bee farm. There, Lily learns about love, forgiveness, and the divine feminine, confronting her own pain and the racial tensions of the era. Contains themes of parental loss, racial violence, and physical abuse.
Heartwarming
Emotional
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,343,864 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sue Monk Kidd's The Secret Life of Bees is celebrated for its vivid storytelling, rich Southern setting, and exploration of themes like race, identity, and family. Readers praise the compelling characters and emotional depth. Some critique the plot's predictability and occasional sentimental tone. Overall, it's a poignant, impactful read that resonates with many.
Who Should Read The Secret Life of Bees?
Readers who enjoyed To Kill a Mockingbird or The Help will appreciate The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. This novel appeals to those interested in coming-of-age stories, themes of racial tension, and the search for maternal love set against the backdrop of 1960s South Carolina.
1,343,864 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
T. Ray Owens
T. Ray Owens
Lily's father and an antagonist in her life, known for his strict and often abusive behavior, which adds tension to Lily's path of self-discovery.
Rosaleen Daise
Rosaleen Daise
Lily's caretaker and stand-in maternal figure, who is strong-willed and serves a significant role in Lily's life as they navigate a changing social landscape.
August Boatwright
August Boatwright
The wise and nurturing matriarch of the household where Lily finds refuge, who provides guidance and support through Lily’s personal challenges.
June Boatwright
June Boatwright
The serious and initially distant sister at the Boatwright household, whose reservations about Lily gradually soften as the story progresses.
May Boatwright
May Boatwright
The youngest Boatwright sister, who has a sensitive nature and unique coping mechanisms for her emotional struggles.
Zachary Taylor
Zachary Taylor
August's godson and Lily's friend, whose ambitions and friendship influence Lily’s perspective on personal dreams and racial barriers.
302
Novel • Fiction
South Carolina • 1960s
2001
YA
14-18 years
840L
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