I read this book within a few days due to the captivating plot and the way that the book was written made me feel that I was really part of the story, as corny as that sounds. The book is written from the viewpoint of various characters meaning that you feel a personal connection with each of them and gives a deeper level of understanding about the racial divide that was so prominent within America during that time period. This book looks at life as a coloured person being the "help" and the influence and power of the white people. Throughout this book you see how the characters deal with the divide and also whether the white characters will use their power and influence for good or bad. Without ruining the plot, as a reader I felt that I grew a deeper understanding of what it would have been like to live within that society and it prompts the reader to form an opinion on their stance. This book will have you going through all sorts of emotions as you embrace each of the characters for both their flaws and strengths.