The Help is a novel about African American maids working for white families during the 1960s in Jackson, Mississippi. It touches topics on racism, but also newfound open-minded perspectives. It follows Skeeter Phelan, a white resident of Jackson, helping black maids, especially Aibileen and Minny, through their struggles as she writes a controversial book about harsh work environments for the maids
Skeeter and her mom
Book – Illustrates Skeeter’s frustrating experiences with her mom, who has a very old-fashioned mindset.
Movie – especially focuses on the two’s unexceptional love, regardless of different perspectives.
Minny and Leroy
Book – follows Minny’s abusive relationship with Leroy is illustrated in greater detail. In the book, she even eventually runs away from him.
Movie – extremely minimal, only scene is when he throws a plate at the wall, and you can hear him yelling.
Themes
Book – deep analysis of racism, privilege, and inequality.
Movie – overall lighter tone, despite both the book and movie being for middle schoolers/freshman, the movie is even more on the kid-friendly side.
Ending (Same plot, but..)
Book – more emphasis on Skeeters success from her book and her new career opportunities.. A bit more open ended.
Movie – follows Aibileen after she gets fired, showcases the dependence many white families had on their maids in these times.
Overall :
Book
- Detailed and serious storytelling.
- Character development and societal criticism
Movie
- Brief, empowering, emotional.
- Visually captivating and heartfelt adaptation
Personally, I liked the movie better because I was able to follow along the whole time. The book was slightly over-detailed and there are many times when I lost the plot.
The Help book and movie by Kathryn Stockett are available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. The book is also available to download for free from Libby.