Racism. Prejudice. Stereotypes. These are heavy and thick words that have led to hundreds of literary masterpieces and therefore hundreds of literary conflicts. Everyone has an opinion about how these historical and negative words have affected society and no matter how much we like to think that civil rights in America or the election of a black president has diminished their effects, they still exist in full form all over the country and all over the world.

It is only natural that, Kathryn Stockett should be applauded for her attempt to write about these three words, her bravery to stand against the criticism she has naturally had to defend and her composure to simply tell a story that she knew would affect the world around her.

“The Help” is yet another story that helps to explain and describe the lives of black women in the South during the middle of the 1900’s. What sets this book apart from its predecessors is its ability to tell their stories along with the story of a white women living among them. Yes, Kathryn Stockett is white, and yes she grew up in the South, but whether or not she skewed the perspectives of the black or white women is left up to personal interpretation.

The book takes place in the 1960’s in Jackson, Miss. It is written from three different points of view. Two are black maids and one is a white, educated woman, still living at home, who seeks to write a book about what a black maid’s life is like in Jackson, Miss.

While racism is the main focus and theme, the fact that the perspectives come from only women brings in the theme of female discrimination as well. For example, Skeeter faces issues with her career and has trouble gaining respect because of her sex. Next to the racial threats for Aibileen and Minny, the two maids, this may seem small, but is nonetheless another pressing issue for the time.

Without giving anything away, “The Help,” involves secrecy, compassion, threat, romance, domestic violence, success and humor. In many ways it ends in a success story for both the black and white parties, which helps to diminish the separation between races.

The book highlights issues that have not been seen as readily as others concerning racism. One that clearly stands out is the description of childcare and love that the maids have for their “kids.” It is even explained that the children express more compassion for the maids than their own parents. Unfortunately, the children eventually grow up and abandon their compassion for their maids, despite the maids’ attempts to teach them to love beyond color.

“The Help” has a little bit of everything and appeals to almost anyone. While it will continue to be ridiculed because of the color of its author and made fun of for the audacity of its content, it continues to be a chart topper and “The Help” epidemic is spreading. People want to read it and need to read it. If you are looking for a book with a little bit of history, a lot of drama and a pinch of humor, give Kathryn Stockett a chance; she may just surprise you.