2nd Book

Today I could write about going to church for almost the last time with friends we have loved and known for 11 years. Beloved spoke and did an awesome job, I got called up "shot gun Sunday" style to bear my testimony. I could write about our heavy hearts and how much we will miss everyone ....but I won't.

Instead I will write about "the Help" by Kathryn Stockett. My 2nd southern reading challenge book that I waited for Beloved to fall asleep two nights ago and then tip toed out of the room to finish. It was that good.

It is the story of several women in Mississippi in the early 60's and told in alternating voices. One a young white woman the other 2 black women who work as household help. This is after slavery but you might not know it to look around; the distinction between white and black is huge. Separate drinking facets, churches, lives. Jim Crow laws are in effect and there is a lot of unrest.

Eugenia, home from college and trying to decide what to do with her life, wants to write. She decides to tell the story of what life is like for the help that each home in her town employs. It is hard to get the women to open up to her but eventually she interviews 12 domestics and tells their story, as well as her own.

I don't want to give it away because really it is a wonderful story that tugs at your heart and explores the richness and strength of relationships, the courage to speak up for something you believe in, and the sameness of every human heart that longs for safety and opportunity and love.

Go read it.