Readers of all cultural backgrounds can gain insightful knowledge of American history from Sue Monk Kidd's third novel, The Invention of Wings. This expertly-written sidekick to the novel offers further intrigue as you explore the themes and characters in a chapter-by-chapter format. Based on real people in history, Sarah Grimk? and a female slave named Handful form an unusual friendship in the midst of Charleston during the early 19th century. Sue Monk Kidd alternates between the two protagonists' viewpoints to illustrate a complete picture of life during this time. The The Invention of Wings brings historical events to life through a fictionalized story of two women from contrasting backgrounds.

Along with analyzing the characters and plot, this sidekick gets you more involved in the novel by asking you to consider differing views on slavery and compare women's rights to the abolitionist movement. The novel covers 1803 through 1838, and readers witness how Sarah evolves from a wealthy 11-year-old into a famous abolitionist. Travel from Charleston to Philadelphia with the characters to see the contrasting lifestyles of the South and North. The Invention of Wings offers a compelling story that educates readers on historical social issues in a way that is sure to entertain.