Questions to Ponder

Book Club Discussion Questions

1. Who was your favorite character? Why?

2. What do you think motivated Hilly? On the one hand she is terribly cruel to Aibileen and her own help, as well as to Skeeter once she realizes that she can’t control her. Yet she’s a wonderful mother. Do you think that one can be a good mother but, at the same time, a deeply flawed person?

3. Like Hilly, Skeeter’s mother is a prime example of someone deeply flawed yet somewhat sympathetic. She seems to care for Skeeter— and she also seems to have very real feelings for Constantine. Yet the ultimatum she gives to Constantine is untenable; and most of her interaction with Skeeter is critical. Do you think Skeeter’s mother is a sympathetic or unsympathetic character? Why?

4. How much of a person’s character would you say is shaped by the times in which they live?

5. Did it bother you that Skeeter is willing to overlook so many of Stuart’s faults so that she can get married, and that it’s not until he literally gets up and walks away that the engagement falls apart?

6. Do you believe that Minny was justified in her distrust of white people?

7. Do you think that had Aibileen stayed working for Miss Elizabeth, that Mae Mobley would have grown up to be racist like her mother? Do you think racism is inherent, or taught?

8. From the perspective of a twenty-first century reader, the hairshellac system that Skeeter undergoes seems ludicrous. Yet women still alter their looks in rather peculiar ways as the definition of “beauty” changes with the times. Looking back on your past, what’s the most ridiculous beauty regimen you ever underwent?

9. The author manages to paint Aibileen with a quiet grace and an aura of wisdom about her. How do you think she does this?

10. Do you think there are still vestiges of racism in relationships where people of color work for people who are white?

11. What did you think about Minny’s pie for Miss Hilly? Would you have gone as far as Minny did for revenge?
(Questions issued by publisher.)

Intro to the Author

Kathryn Stockett was born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi. She later attended and graduated from the University of Alabama where she obtained a degree in English and Creative Writing. She pursued a career in the magazine business in New York. She is currently living in Atlanta, Georgia, with her family.
As this is Ms. Stockett's first novel, there isn't really other works with which to compare The Help. That being said, she's made a great break out into the world of published novel writers with a book filled with round and full characters that will endear themselves to you.
Enjoy this novel (quickly) so we can discuss it on October 14th at Ms. S's home!!

September Meeting

After a couple weeks of postponement, Book Club was able to finally start the new Fall Schedule. There was a great turnout with a fantastic discussion. We are also happy to welcome a few new faces and perspectives!
The majority of our discussion revolved around organ donation and a critique of motherhood from many different perspectives. It was interesting to see how the discussion developed as some people were unable to read My Sister's Keeper before the meeting. Due to this, we have voted that if someone has not finished reading the selection, it's fair game to tell the ending so that the discussion can be full and open.
We'd like to Welcome Ms. N and Ms. C and thank Ms. J for hosting (I really need to verify use of people's names on here!). We look forward to the following months and continue to welcome all who would like to join us. We've opted to move meetings to the second Thursday of each month to avoid some scheduling conflicts.
So, get in gear because the next meeting really is just two weeks away!! We are reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett. Never fear! It's a recent best seller, so the language is easy and it is a compelling and quick read. You'll enjoy it!