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The Invention of Wings summary
Brief summary
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd tells the powerful story of two women, Sarah Grimké and Handful, as they fight for freedom and pursue their dreams in the face of slavery and societal oppression.
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The Invention of Wings
Summary of key ideas
The Beginning of a Journey
In The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd, we are transported to early 19th century Charleston, South Carolina. The story begins on Sarah Grimké's eleventh birthday, when she is given a slave named Handful as her personal maid. Sarah, a thoughtful and sensitive girl, is horrified by the gift, but her parents insist she accept it. Handful, on the other hand, is a spirited and rebellious girl who resents her enslavement.
As the years pass, Sarah and Handful form a complex bond. Sarah, who dreams of becoming a lawyer, is stifled by the societal expectations placed on women. Handful, meanwhile, endures the harsh realities of slavery, including physical abuse and the constant threat of being sold away from her family. Despite their different circumstances, both girls yearn for freedom and independence.
Struggles and Aspirations
As Sarah grows older, she becomes increasingly disillusioned with the institution of slavery. She secretly teaches Handful to read and write, an illegal act that could have severe consequences. Sarah's growing abolitionist views put her at odds with her family and the society she was born into. She eventually leaves Charleston to join the burgeoning abolitionist movement in the North.
Handful, too, becomes more determined to assert her autonomy. She learns about her mother's failed escape attempt and becomes involved in a planned slave rebellion. Despite the risks, Handful refuses to accept her fate and continues to fight for her freedom.
Separate Paths, Shared Ideals
As Sarah and Handful's lives diverge, their shared ideals of freedom and equality continue to shape their actions. Sarah becomes a prominent figure in the abolitionist and women's rights movements, authoring influential pamphlets and speeches. Handful, still enslaved, finds solace in her mother's stories of the "spirit tree," a symbol of hope and resistance.
Despite their physical separation, Sarah and Handful remain connected. Sarah carries Handful's spirit with her as she fights for the rights of women and African Americans. Handful, in turn, draws strength from Sarah's example, refusing to be broken by the oppressive system of slavery.
Reunion and Resolution
After many years, Sarah returns to Charleston to confront her past. She is shocked by the worsening conditions of the slaves and the continued prevalence of the institution she had fought so hard to abolish. Handful, now a middle-aged woman, has endured unimaginable hardships but remains unbroken.
In a poignant moment, Sarah attempts to grant Handful her freedom, but Handful refuses. She explains that true freedom cannot be given; it must be taken. The novel ends with Sarah and Handful standing together, two women from vastly different backgrounds, united in their shared struggle for autonomy and dignity.
Final Thoughts
In The Invention of Wings, Sue Monk Kidd masterfully weaves together the stories of two remarkable women, highlighting the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of oppression. Through Sarah and Handful's intertwined narratives, Kidd offers a searing critique of the historical injustices of slavery and gender inequality, while also celebrating the resilience and courage of those who fought against them.
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What is The Invention of Wings about?
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is a historical novel inspired by the life of Sarah Grimké, a real-life abolitionist and women's rights activist. Set in the early 19th century, the book tells the story of Sarah and Handful, a slave gifted to Sarah on her 11th birthday. The novel explores themes of freedom, empowerment, and the enduring bond between the two women as they strive for independence in a society that seeks to confine them.
The Invention of Wings Review
The Invention of Wings (2014) by Sue Monk Kidd is a powerful historical novel that explores the themes of slavery, freedom, and female empowerment. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Providing a gripping portrayal of the abolitionist movement, it sheds light on the courageous women who fought for equality in a society built on oppression.
- The book delves into the complexity of relationships, showcasing the evolving bond between Sarah and Handful as they navigate their respective paths towards freedom.
- With its compelling and thought-provoking narrative, the book challenges the reader to reconsider their preconceived notions about race, gender, and the pursuit of justice.
Who should read The Invention of Wings?
- Readers who enjoy historical fiction and stories of women's empowerment
- Those interested in exploring the complexities of slavery and its impact on individuals
- People who appreciate beautifully crafted prose and compelling characters
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The Invention of Wings FAQs
What is the main message of The Invention of Wings?
The main message of The Invention of Wings is the power of resilience and the fight for freedom and equality.
How long does it take to read The Invention of Wings?
The reading time for The Invention of Wings varies but plan for several hours. You can read the Blinkist summary in 15 minutes.
Is The Invention of Wings a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Invention of Wings is a compelling read worth your time. It explores themes of courage, friendship, and social change.
Who is the author of The Invention of Wings?
The author of The Invention of Wings is Sue Monk Kidd.
What to read after The Invention of Wings?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Invention of Wings, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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