Sue Monk Kidd's The Invention of Wings draws acclaim for its compelling portrayal of two women fighting against slavery and societal constraints, offering rich historical detail and poignant character development. However, some readers feel its pacing lags at times. Overall, it effectively illuminates critical issues through engrossing storytelling and nuanced perspectives.

A reader who would enjoy The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is typically drawn to historical fiction with strong female protagonists, social justice themes, and intricate character development. Fans of The Help by Kathryn Stockett or Beloved by Toni Morrison will likely find this book equally compelling.

The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is a historical novel set in the 1800s that traces the intersecting lives of abolitionist sisters Sarah and Angelina Grimké, and Sarah’s enslaved maid, Hetty Handful Grimké. Spanning 35 years, it begins with Sarah receiving Handful as a birthday present and ends with Sarah helping Handful and her sister Sky escape enslavement, fulfilling a promise made to Handful’s mother.

Emotional / Inspirational / Challenging / Contemplative / Bittersweet

- The Invention of Wings is inspired by the real-life story of the Grimké sisters, Sarah and Angelina, who were among the first female abolitionists and early advocates for women's rights in America.
- Sue Monk Kidd, in writing The Invention of Wings, was heavily influenced by her own Southern upbringing, which prompted her to delve deeply into the history of slavery and its impact on the American South.
- The novel was chosen for Oprah's Book Club 2.0 in 2014, significantly boosting its popularity and bringing more attention to its historical themes.

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The Invention of Wings Summary and Study Guide

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Part 1 The Invention of Wings Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 The Invention of Wings Part 2 Summary & Analysis

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Part 4 The Invention of Wings Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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The Invention of Wings Character Analysis

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The Invention of Wings

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