Well, an International Bestseller snagged me again. I know, I know. After my last experience I swore to return to the 19th century and I did; albeit, via the BBC. It only took watching Anthony Trollope’s 1869 novel He Knew He was Right to lower my blood pressure and lull me into a blissful Victorian coma. I did bring my Kindle on our trip to California (most 19th century works are free on it), but when we went to Costco the other day I was drawn to the book table and one $9.99 “Bestseller” could not be ignored.
I know I am a little late hopping on the bandwagon for Kathryn Stockett’s The Help. It was published in 2009 and it has already made such a sensation that the movie version is coming out this August. Obviously, I was still a little skeptical when I started it, but I really liked this book. I appreciated the fact that even though it’s set in what has become an overdone time period and place (1960’s Mississippi) the story is unique. Stockett hit on all the major events and topics of the Civil Rights period: Rosa Parks, the MLK and JFK assassination, separate but equal, and the KKK, but they were a minor part of the novel, the backdrop to the daily lives and struggles of the maids and the white young woman, Skeeter, working to record their stories.
My favorite character in this story was Miss Celia: a clueless “white trash” lady from podunk Mississippi who married rich and now doesn’t have a clue about how to be a “lady.” She dresses like Stripper Doll Barbie. She does things like getting her platinum blond head stuck in her hair dryer hood. Trust me, she’s a great character.
The trailer actually looks good. Of course, it won’t be as good as the book. I just hope there aren’t too many movie moments. You know, those cheesed up scenes that you see coming a mile away and you’re hoping they don’t do it, but then, lo and behold, the music swells and the moment happens and once again, originality and Hollywood separate on the path of entertainment. Still ... I guess one shouldn't pre-criticize. I will keep an open mind. :)
Yes! I'm trying to get everyone I know to read this! I loved it too (as you saw on my blog, how funny we both read it at the same time!) I agree about Miss Celia. Her story, told through the eyes of Minny was hilarious, and also touching. I think my favorite character was Aibileen and her relationship with Mae Mobley. There were many tear-inducing moments in that story line for me. I wish we could have more book club type discussion about this! I'd love to hear more of your thoughts!
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