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Summary Of The Secret Life Of Bees By Sue Monk Kidd

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Within the novel “The Secret Life of Bees” written by Sue Monk Kidd, the reader enters a journey exploring the hardships of the time period, as well as the power and the strength of women. The story, set in the Deep South during the 1960’s illustrates the struggle of Lily Owens, a fourteen year old girl with her parents and developing society. On a quest to unlock the truth and more information about her mother, Lily takes up residence with three African-American sisters where she is taught and encounters unfamiliar experiences that she would have never believed possible. Over the course of the novel, Kidd details the altering and dynamic relationship between Lily and her parents. Although minimal change occurs involving Lily’s abusive father, …show more content…

The drive to behold more information about her mother and to determine the truth propels Lily’s actions which contributes to the developing relationship. Using the entire course of the novel and creating this relationship to be included in the majority of the meaning and plot behind the story, Kidd illustrates the alterations. The shifts begin to develop when the author leads the readers to understand Lily’s attitude towards her mother she has compiled the “perfect” image of her and believes that she would have never abandoned her. However, as the storyline progresses, the author gradually reveals more information about Deborah. The introduction of the first shift is bestowed by Kidd is found in chapter nine on page 253 as Lily has a dream about her mother with ...roach legs protruding through her clothes.” It is apparent that Lily is beginning to see Deborah differently. Continuing to develop this shift between the mother-daughter relationship more information about Deborah is presented within chapter thirteen on page 361. At this particular part in the story August informs Lily that, “...she came by herself.” in regards to Deborah. After hearing this shocking information, on page 362, LIly expresses the feeling she was experiencing by saying “I hate her.” An astounding shift in relationship had taken place, rather than love and longing it was filled with hatred. Near, the conclusion of the novel , however, Kidd composes yet another change. Lily appears to forgive her mother and reliance although Deborah made a mistake she lover her nevertheless , demonstrated on page 397 when Lily explained “...let me know I was loved.” In addition, the use of the words “let me know” by Kidd articulates to the reader that prior to this realization Lily did not feel loved,

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