I have read this book last year some time, maybe last summer? Anyway, I just saw the movie this past week and thought I would share my thoughts about both the book and the movie.
First, I rarely enjoy a movie from book when I have read the book ahead of time. I admit to being a little skeptical about the movie when I went to see it. However, the previews were enticing and I really did enjoy the book. So I went ahead, ended up going in a late afternoon showing by myself. I’ll admit I was anticipating a few tears, so I did bring along extra tissue.
Well – I have to say the movie did NOT disappoint me. I was thoroughly engrossed with the movie and despite knowing the plotline, was very much anticipating the story progression. I thought the movie did the book absolute justice! So – for those of you similar skeptics, it is worth seeing the movie!The characters in this book were the heart of the story. Aibileen, Minny, Skeeter, Hilly – you very much got to be familiar with them and the way they think. You come to understand their background of experiences is leading them to where they are in the story. You may not agree, or have a hard time understanding their plight, but it makes sense with the way each of them were raised.
It is something most of us current day women don’t understand. We weren’t raised with black maids as the standard of living. For Hilly, Skeeter, and Elizabeth, it was just what it was – they were raised by the maids and now had them in their lives and families. The best part of the story is the shift in thinking that occurs – first by Skeeter, and then the maids themselves. It hadn’t even dawned on them that they were being treated with ill-will, they just assumed it was the way and didn’t question it. I love how Aibileen goes through her mind-shift to realize she can be treated better, and that she deserves a level of respect. Also, Skeeter goes through her mind-shift when she realizes how her own maid growing up was treated, and how she had been asked the leave the family. I was especially touched with Skeeter’s mother coming to the same realization. Very touching scene between them when the mother finally expresses pride in her daughter, instead of the usual criticism!
Mostly, the character of Minny is both a comic relief as well as someone who represents the challenges they faced in those times. Minny tried to put a little toe in the water of defiance (using the bathroom) and the results of this action become overwhelming. She can’t get another job, she has to force her daughter to go to work, her husband abuses her more. And yet, her resilience to try to keep going is amazing. Ultimately, she is granted the gift of acceptance and admiration from Celia – who is need of a caring, nurturing mother type. Minny doesn’t think she is doing anything spectacular, but finally realizes the impact she has had Celia. Even though this is a sub-plot line, it really needs to be acknowledged for its importance.
Aibileen is the strongest character of the book, she has become more independent thinking, more respectful towards herself. Her growth of confidence throughout the book, gives her the strength to handle the final confrontation at the end. She walks away with her dignity, leaving Hilly and Elizabeth seriously questioning the change that was occurring in their small world. Aibileen had grown, and she has “hope” for her future.
This was a book that was enjoyable to read, despite that underlying thread of racism. I give kudos to the author for addressing such a difficult topic in a way that we can cope with facing. It’s something most of us were not even aware of that happened in our recent history. When we know more about it, it can hopefully awaken our consciousness!
All in all – a good book recommendation, if you haven’t read it yet and good recommendation to see the movie!!
