2016 Nov 8
by Vandana Hiranand
Set in South Carolina in 1964, The Secret Life of Bees tells the story of Lily Owens, whose life has been shaped around the blurred memory of the afternoon her mother was killed. When Lily’s fierce hearted black “stand-in-mother,” Rosaleen, insults three of the deepest racists in town, Lily decides to spring them both free. They escape to Tiburon, South Carolina – a town that holds the secret to her mother’s past. Taken in by an eccentric trio of black beekeeping sisters, Lily is introduced to their mesmerizing world of bees and honey, and the Black Madonna. This is a remarkable novel about divine female power, a story that women will share and pass on to their daughters for years to come.
A bestseller, Sue Monk Kidd received much critical acclaim for this novel. Although this book has many various aspects to it, beekeeping included, at its core, it is about mothers and motherly relationships, motherly mistakes and women who become mothers for the people they love. An inspiring and remarkable tale, it touches upon racism, abuse, and the wonder of escaping to discover a whole new world.
For many impatient readers, the slow pacing of the book can be rather unnerving, so prepare yourself for some slow-moving scenes. Although this novel has been met with many conflicting reviews, the well crafted characters and challenging of stereotypes have made it increasingly popular. Although chock full of symbolism, the author does not get carried away, nor lose the rhythm, flow and realism of the story. Different readers may have mixed feelings and opinions upon reading, yet the read will definitely be worth it.
Rating: 3.8/5
