53 pages • 1 hour read
Kathleen GrissomThe Kitchen House
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom follows Lavinia, a young Irish orphan indentured at Tall Oaks plantation, and Belle, the enslaved daughter of the plantation owner, from 1791. As Lavinia and Belle's lives intertwine amidst the brutality and complex dynamics of slavery, their shared bond and resilience shape their destinies amidst love, loss, and struggle for identity. This novel contains depictions of violence, abuse, and other sensitive themes.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom captivates with its compelling portrayal of an indentured servant's life on a Southern plantation. Readers appreciate the rich historical details and emotional depth of its characters. However, some criticize its pacing and predictability. Overall, it offers a poignant look at complex social dynamics, blending drama and history effectively.
Who Should Read The Kitchen House?
Readers who cherish historical fiction intertwined with complex characters and rich, emotional narratives will find The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom captivating. Fans of The Help by Kathryn Stockett and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will appreciate the intertwining stories of Lavinia, a white indentured servant, and Belle, a black slave, on a Virginia plantation.