Gritty / Dark / Emotional / Mysterious / Suspenseful

Mrs. Wiggins by Mary Monroe is praised for its engaging storytelling and complex characters. Readers appreciate the historical setting and intricate plot twists. However, some find the pacing uneven and feel that certain character motivations lack depth. Overall, it's a compelling read that successfully weaves drama with social themes.

Readers who enjoy Mrs. Wiggins by Mary Monroe likely appreciate dramatic, character-driven stories set in historical contexts, much like those in The Color Purple by Alice Walker and The Help by Kathryn Stockett, delving into themes of resilience, family, and social change, with strong female protagonists.

Mrs. Wiggins by Mary Monroe follows a woman, Maggie Wiggins, navigating life in 1930s Alabama. Amidst societal and personal challenges, she faces complex relationships and secrets. This engaging narrative highlights resilience and determination while exploring themes of family, community, and survival during a turbulent era.

**Maggie Wiggins**  
The protagonist and narrator, Maggie is a 17-year-old Black woman known for her practicality and commitment to her family and community. She is married to Hubert and deeply devoted to her son, Claude.

**Hubert Wiggins**  
Maggie's husband, Hubert is a thoughtful and cautious individual, balancing his duties as a father and husband while concealing aspects of his identity. He is attentive to Maggie's needs and nurturing towards their son, Claude.

**Claude Wiggins**  
The son of Maggie and Hubert, Claude is characterized by his straightforwardness and affection for his parents. His relationships and life experiences play a central role in the narrative.

**Jessie Tucker**  
A friend to Maggie and a supportive figure, Jessie shares similar life circumstances but faces her own set of challenges. She provides a contrast to Maggie with her own familial struggles and quest for personal contentment.

**Fern Dowler**  
An elderly and affluent white woman, Mrs. Dowler serves as a mentor to Maggie by offering support and guidance free from the prevalent racial prejudices of their community. She values her independence and is generous with her resources.

Mary Monroe

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Mrs. Wiggins | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Mrs. Wiggins Summary and Study Guide

Background

Mrs. Wiggins Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1917-1936”

Part 1, Chapters 1-8

Mrs. Wiggins Part 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-15

Mrs. Wiggins Part 1, Chapters 9-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “1936-1939”

Part 2, Chapters 16-26

Mrs. Wiggins Part 2, Chapters 16-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 27-39

Mrs. Wiggins Part 2, Chapters 27-39 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 40-49

Mrs. Wiggins Part 2, Chapters 40-49 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Mrs. Wiggins Character Analysis

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Themes

Mrs. Wiggins Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Mrs. Wiggins Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Mrs. Wiggins Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Mrs. Wiggins Essay Topics

Mrs. Wiggins

Before You Read

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Who Should Read Mrs. Wiggins?

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