The Invention of Wings

by Sue Monk Kidd
The Invention of Wings cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 1556
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781472212764
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-01-07
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

'The Invention of Wings' by Sue Monk Kidd is a deeply moving novel that explores the extraordinary bond between Sarah Grimké, a privileged daughter of a slave-owning family, and Hetty 'Handful' Grimké, a slave given to Sarah as a gift. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the American Deep South in the nineteenth century, highlighting the stark contrasts of beauty and cruelty, and the power of friendship and sisterhood in the face of adversity. Inspired by real events, this novel delves into the lives of two remarkable women, each navigating their own path towards freedom and self-discovery. Sarah's journey as an abolitionist and women's rights advocate intertwines with Handful's struggle for freedom, creating a resonant and illuminating narrative that celebrates the human spirit.

Reviews
Book Blog · Judy Leigh · 2025-10-20
positive 4.50

A powerful story of sisterhood and resilience.

This historical fiction novel explores themes of slavery, freedom, and the unbreakable bonds between sisters. The characters are well-developed and the narrative is compelling, making for an emotional and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    A powerful story of sisterhood and resilience.

    The characters are well-developed and the narrative is compelling.

Judy Leigh · 2016-10-07
inspiring 4.50

The book is praised for its powerful writing and compelling characters, with the reviewer highlighting Sue Monk Kidd's ability to craft a moving narrative.

The reviewer was deeply moved by the book's exploration of themes like racial and gender equality. They appreciated the author's skill in weaving together historical events with personal stories, creating a rich and engaging narrative. The characters are brought to life with such detail that the reviewer felt a strong connection to their journeys. The prose is described as eloquent and thought-provoking, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    It is well written, in terms of character, voice, setting and plot.

    Sue Monk Kidd's ability to use language powerfully and yet retain the...

    The characters are brought to life with such detail that the reviewer felt a strong connection to their journeys.

NPR · 2014-01-11
profound 4.50

The novel is praised as a textured masterpiece that quietly yet powerfully engages the reader's conscience.

The reviewer was struck by the novel's ability to tackle complex themes with subtlety and depth. They appreciated how the story explores the meaning of sisterhood and the fight for freedom. The narrative is described as quietly powerful, with a profound impact on the reader's consciousness. The reviewer found the book to be a masterpiece, with its intricate layers and thought-provoking content making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    The novel is a textured masterpiece, quietly yet powerfully poking our consciences and our consciousness.

    What does it mean to be a sister, a...

    The narrative is described as quietly powerful, with a profound impact on the reader's consciousness.

The Guardian · 2014-01-05
resonant 4.00

The novel is described as resonant and illuminating, with a focus on the search for voice and identity.

The reviewer found the novel to be a powerful exploration of themes that are still relevant today. They appreciated how the story delves into the complexities of race and gender, making it a resonant read. The characters' struggles and triumphs are portrayed with such depth that the reviewer felt a strong emotional connection. The novel's historical setting is used to highlight contemporary issues, making it a thought-provoking and illuminating experience.

Quick quotes

    In a world beset by modern-day slavery, this is a resonant, illuminating novel.

    It is a story about searching for a voice to express...

    The characters' struggles and triumphs are portrayed with such depth that the reviewer felt a strong emotional connection.

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