The Help by: Kathryn Stockett

The Help by: Kathryn Stockett

Publisher: Penguin
Published: February 10, 2009
Series: None
Format: Print/eBook
Page count: 522
Buy the book: http://amzn.to/tZKTCC

Summary from Amazon:

A modern classic, The Help has been a cultural touchstone for the millions of readers who have cheered on Skeeter, laughed with Minny, and hissed at Hilly. The noble and strong Aibileen has become a heroine for countless fans whose letters have poured in from all over the world.

My Review:

          I'm not the first person to review this book, but it's too good to resist reviewing. Arguably better than the movie, the book gave me goosebumps and more than its share of laughs and tears. Switching between the three main characters' perspectives, Skeeter, Minny, and Aibileen, the only confusing aspects of the book may be the bombardament of names and nothing indicating the passage of time. However, the characters--frustrating, loveable, and hysterical as they are--are the driving force of the story, from Minny's stubborn, tell-it-like-it-is personality, to Skeeter's compassion and lessening naivete, to the ridiculous employers across town that arouse shock, hate, and empathy. The book is a little slow, but the thickening tension never lets up, dragging you through the social, financial, and racial affairs of a small Southern town in 1962. Warning: The book will not fail to suck you into its pages, so make sure you've got a huge chunk of time and a box of tissues to plunk down somewhere and read it. Even if you've seen the movie before you read the book, go for it--I did, and I was NOT disappointed.