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The Secret Life of Bees
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The Secret Life of Bees
Author: Sue Monk Kidd

Book Information
Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics)
Book Type: Paperback
Rating:

ISBN-13: 9780143114550 - ISBN-10: 0143114557
Publication Date: 8/20/2008
Pages: 336

Book Description:
Sue Monk Kidd's ravishing debut novel has stolen the hearts of reviewers and readers alike with its strong, assured voice. 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 "stand-in mother," Rosaleen, insults three of the town's fiercest racists, Lily decides they should both escape to Tiburon, South Carolina--a town that holds the secret to her mother's past. There they are taken in by an eccentric trio of black beekeeping sisters who introduce Lily to a mesmerizing world of bees, honey, and the Black Madonna who presides over their household. This is a remarkable story about divine female power and the transforming power of love--a story that women will share and pass on to their daughters for years to come.

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Top Member Book Reviews

Tammy H. (soonergirl) wrote on 3/24/2009...

1 member(s) found this review helpful.

I loved this book. It was so easy to fall in love with each of the characters as Kidd weaved them into each other's lives. Her writing style made me feel like I could so easily relate to every word and line as she revealed it. Hated to see the book end.

Heather O. peacefulreader wrote on 2/18/2009...

1 member(s) found this review helpful.

Loved this book. Read it in two short sittings. Much better then the movie, although the movie was great too.


Please Rate these Book Reviews

Carol T. wrote on 11/20/2009...


This is a good book about race relations, family relations and being powerful in your own life. It is set in South Carolina in 1964.

Karen H. (hickman) wrote on 6/4/2009...


I really enjoyed this book. I enjoy the way the characters grew throughout the book. I loved them all. I want to know more about them, but I guess that is what makes a great book.
I recommend this book +++++++

Robin F. (robinferguson) wrote on 3/23/2009...


Beautiful story! I didn't want to put the book down. It was exciting to experience the relationship between Lily and Rosaleen as they set out on a journey to Tiburon to learn more about Lily's mom. During their journey they met three sisters (beekeepers) and were taken in by them. The story is about these women and their relationship with one another. It was heart-warming to me to see these people living in a "colorless" society during the 1960's. It brought back memories of how things were in the US before and during the Civil Rights Movement. A family does not have to be traditional...family is what you make of it and your relationship with others. I found this story to be filled with love, hope, and inspiration!

Becki F. (foxyloxy0613) wrote on 3/12/2009...


This is a sweet and interesting book! If you are a champion for empowering women, you'll love this book! I don't think I want to see the movie because it just may ruin the softness in me that the book left behind.

Toni S. wrote on 3/5/2009...


This is a exceptional book and a real page turner. I enjoyed it.

Debbie J. wrote on 2/23/2009...


I liked this book but would not read it again.

Mindyanne B. (Psych4kids) wrote on 12/1/2008...


I just completed this book in two days. The author paints a picture so clearly with her picturesque speech. I was transported back to the turmoil of the mid-60's civil rights conflict. It was painful to relive some of the horror that was during that time, however, I believe it necessary to recall the details and lament lest we forget. Laced throughout the painful, poingent reminder is a strong spiritual element that was comforting and encouraging. I highly recommend this book and am hoping my 15 year old will read it next. When she does I plan to see if the movie did it justice.


Book Wiki
Series
Original Publication Date (YYYY-MM-DD)
People/Characters
Lily Owens (Primary Character)
Rosaleen Daise (Primary Character)
May Boatwright (Primary Character)
June Boatwright (Primary Character)
(Show all 8 People/Characters)
Real Places
Fictional Places
Important Events
Awards and Honors