The Help by Kathryn Stockett offers a compelling narrative with strong character development, focusing on racial tensions in 1960s Mississippi. Reviews praise the engaging storytelling and emotional depth. Criticism centers on clichés and the portrayal of dialect. Despite these issues, it's widely celebrated for tackling important social themes in an accessible manner.

Readers who would enjoy The Help by Kathryn Stockett appreciate historical fiction focused on social justice and character-driven narratives. Fans of To Kill a Mockingbird or The Secret Life of Bees may find this story engaging, as it explores complex relationships against the backdrop of 1960s Mississippi.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a 2009 novel set in Jackson, Mississippi, during the early 1960s, focusing on the lives of Black maids working in white households amidst the civil rights movement. The story is told from the perspectives of three women: Aibileen, an older maid; Minny, her outspoken friend; and Eugenia "Skeeter" Phelan, a young white woman who aspires to be a writer and aims to document the maids' stories to reveal the injustices they face. 

Please note that the book contains depictions of racism and the struggles of Black Americans during the civil rights era.

Emotional / Inspirational / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Humorous

Kathryn Stockett

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read The Help | SuperSummary

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Overview

Uncover the themes of courage and friendship in The Help, as three women challenge societal norms to tell their stories. Access a full summary and expert analysis now.

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Background

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The Help Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Help Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-6

The Help Chapters 5-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

The Help Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-13

The Help Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-18

The Help Chapters 14-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-22

The Help Chapters 19-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-26

The Help Chapters 23-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-29

The Help Chapters 27-29 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 30-34

The Help Chapters 30-34 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Help Character Analysis

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Themes

The Help Themes

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The Help Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Help Important Quotes

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The Help Essay Topics

The Help

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