The Helpby Kathryn Stockett
Penguin Group, 2009
Source: e-book purchased from Barnes & Noble
I just finished reading The Help and my mind is still reeling. This book is phenomenal. I can see why it’s been on the New York Times bestseller list for months now. It totally deserves it.
The Help has three narrators – Aibileen, Minny and Miss Skeeter – each of whom completely comes to life as their chapters unfold. Kathryn Stockett gives each character a unique voice and I found myself caring as much about their individual stories as I did the larger story that connects them all. I felt a twinge of dismay every time the novel switched narrators because it always seemed to happen just as I was getting sucked into that particular character’s daily life and I really, really wanted to know what was going to happen next. And then the next chapter would begin and my dismay would quickly evaporate as I got sucked into their story. It was a fantastic problem to have, really. I could barely put the book down, and when I did it was never willingly.
I really should have waited a few days to write this since I’m still in that glowing stage where I can do nothing but stare at the book and sigh. Maybe once I’ve digested it I’ll have more philosophical and insightful things to say (maybe). So just go read the book. And then call me when you’ve finished. Because I assure you, once you read it (which you will) you’re going to want to talk about it.
Did I miss your review? Let me know and I’ll add it to the list!
Trust me, even a month after reading it, I still look at the book and just sigh….. (sigh)I was recently at a book club meeting (my first meeting with the club) and brought The Help as a suggestion for their booklist since no one had read it yet. They wanted me to review the book for them, and I had about as few words as you did. It was comical really because I basically just told them, "Trust me, just read it, and you'll thank me later…" Some books are just too good for words!
I know! When I realized how little I had actually written, I felt kinda ridiculous posting this. But sometimes words just don't cut it. Plus there are about a hundred of other reviews out there, so mine felt a little redundant. Please tell me your book group read it . . . !
I have this one downloaded to my Nook, and I haven't read it yet, but it'll get done before the year is out. I started it a while back and wasn't sucked in immediately, so I'm hoping a change of mood will help. I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
I have this one downloaded to my Nook, and I haven't read it yet, but it'll get done before the year is out. I started it a while back and wasn't sucked in immediately, so I'm hoping a change of mood will help. I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Andi – This was actually the first book I read on my Nook, which may have influenced my opinion a little (since I was, and still am, in that giddy, Nook infatuated stage). I'm interested to know what you think, so be sure to let us know when you read it!