"The Help" gives valuable insight into the South of the 1960s, as well as to the roles of women, both African American and white, during a time of multiple societal changes. Although it is an easy read, it's no lightweight novel. You find yourself cheering for the women who — like members of a resistance movement —meet in secret to compile the book containing their stories. And hoping the club women who employ them get their come-uppence. Whether you lived through the '60s or not, you will discover how much things have changes -- or have they?