I know I use five stars too liberally, but you've likely heard of this book by now, and I was toting a grain of salt due to its rising popularity ("if everyone likes it, it can't be THAT good"). But yes, it is that good. Go read it, all the way through the author's note at the end. 
 Favorite quotes: 
 "...I'd rather spend the rest of my life right here in Aibileen's cozy little kitchen, having her explain the world to me. That's what I love about Aibileen, she can take the most complicated things in life and wrap them up so small and simple, they'll fit right in your pocket." 
 "...it was like something cracked open inside of me, not unlike a watermelon, cool and soothing and sweet. I always thought insanity would be a dark, bitter feeling, but it is drenching and delicious if you really roll around in it."