Kathryn Stockett's unconventional childhood in Mississippi, along with a special relationship with her family's housekeeper, set the backdrop for this intriguing story of discrimination, privilege, and friendship. The brutal and unflinching honesty of this novel exposes many of the negative parts of Southern culture that some would like to forget, while simultaneously displaying Stockett's dark sense of humor. What unusual challenges did the author face on her journey from manuscript to published book? From where did she draw inspiration for her vivid characters? Why did The Help inspire such passionate fans as well as detractors? How do we as humans cope with severe loss in our lives, especially when it happens over time? Why do people discriminate against and judge one another? Can three women from very different perspectives help to bring about change in a era of firmly held prejudices? All of these issues and more are explored in the award-winning tale of The Help.
