"The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd is a powerful and moving historical novel that tells the story of two women – Sarah Grimké, a wealthy white woman and abolitionist, and Handful, a young enslaved girl who belongs to Sarah's family. The novel is set in the early 19th century in Charleston, South Carolina, and follows the intertwined lives of these two women as they navigate the complexities of race, gender, and freedom.
Kidd's writing is exquisite and lyrical, drawing the reader in with vivid descriptions and rich character development. The relationship between Sarah and Handful is at the heart of the novel, and Kidd does a fantastic job of portraying the deep bond that forms between these two very different women as they navigate the oppressive society in which they live.
The novel is both heartbreaking and hopeful, as it explores the themes of resilience, strength, and the fight for freedom and equality. Kidd does not shy away from the brutality of slavery, but she also highlights the courage and determination of those who fought against it.
Overall, "The Invention of Wings" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on a dark period in American history. It is a story of empowerment, sisterhood, and the enduring power of the human spirit. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moving and impactful read.