The Secret Life of Bees

1. The Secret Life of Bees A Quick Plot Synopsis

2. Set in South Carolina in 1964 • Lily Owens is a 14 year-old girl who is haunted by the memory of her late mother. • To escape her lonely life and troubled relationship with her father, Lily flees with Rosaleen, her caregiver and only friend, to a South Carolina town that holds the secret to her mother's past. • They are taken in by the intelligent and independent Boatwright sisters. • Lily finds solace in their mesmerizing world of beekeeping.

3. Historical Context of the Novel • Minority groups in America, especially “blacks” were being denied basic human rights provided for other Americans (namely “whites”). • A movement was underway, fighting for equal treatment. • Tensions between races, especially in the South were high.

4. The Film: 4 Little Girls Rationale for watching: Secret Life of Bees is thick with historical and cultural references. By watching this film, students can deepen and extend comprehension of the novel by relating to the experiences, issues and events during which the novel and the film both take place.

5. Warning/ Heads up There are some tough images in this film, including: • Pictures of people who have been hanged • Some post mortem pictures of young girls who were hurt in a bombing *Most are not graphic. There is one that is a bit graphic. If you do not feel comfortable watching the film, speak to me before we start.