THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett: My first impression

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In pitch-perfect voices, Kathryn Stockett creates three extraordinary women whose determination to start a movement of their own forever changes a town, and the way women—mothers, daughters, caregivers, friends—view one another. A deeply moving novel filled with poignancy, humor, and hope, The Help is a timeless and universal story about the lines we abide by, and the ones we don’t. -from the inside flap

This is less of a review and more of my first impressions, written down during the afterglow of reading a great book. FIVE STARS for this one.

I can't imagine the time that must have gone into these intricately woven stories. This version of 1963 Jackson, Mississippi fills out in lush detail while Stockett's characters think--and make readers think--about history, humanity, and the attitudes that shape reality for all of us. None of the themes is lightweight and it could not have been easy to address these important issues about love, race, gender, and compassion, but Kathryn Stockett has done it fearlessly and vulnerably.

As a reader, I was in turns amused, terrified, and touched.

I really feel any review I offer would be insufficient to capture my reaction to this comprehensive story.

So I'll simply suggest you read it for yourself and let it move you, let it interact with your mind the way only a book can.

You will be better for it.

P.S. I'm posting this at midnight, but when dawn rolls around, the April 1st MYSTERY AGENT CONTEST will kick off at Operation Awesome. Don't miss it if you've got a complete novel to pitch (one sentence pitches; please read all details on the official contest entry thread before entering). And good luck!