Book Review_The Help by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

 

These days I’ve heard about a lot of violence happening in the U.S. due to racism . A few months ago, some African Americans demonstrated after an African American was shot dead by the police. Also, many African Americans say that they are discriminated because of their color. However, I didn’t know how serious this issue was until I read this book.

The background of this book 1960s when black people were completely separated from white people. They were killed when they used the white restroom or without specific reasons. The black women tended to the white family. I can’t imagine that it just happened 50 years ago. Just 50 years ago, black people were not equally treated as white people, and that is why this kind of unfairness still happens.

 

The book cover says ‘Change begins with a whisper.’ I totally agree with this phrase. Black women, they decide to talk about how it is to live as a helper. It is just talking, talking about their lives, but this leads to change. Owing to this talking and writing a book, Aibileen makes a brand new start, working as a writer. Minny also decides to get away from her husband, and Miss Skeeter has a chance to start her life in New York. Furthermore, a helper says that she has talked with her owner on the table for the first time since the book 'Help' is published. Like these, whispering has a power. Nowadays, Korea is also having hard time. There seems nothing to do to get over this situation. However, as this book says, just whispering, or just talking about what is wrong and what is right can lead to positive results. That is why we keep talking.

 

I love Ms. Skeeter. She is a privileged person. She knows that if she writes a book about racisim, she will lose many things including her boy friend. Also, it is not easy to notice this unequality in society when people are in privileged situation. However, she realizes the absurd reality and puts what she believes into action.

 

It is important to pay attention to our society and keep thinking about what is happening in our society. That is the best way to notice some gaps and start changes.