Jewel (novel)

Jewel Bret Lott

Jewel is a novel written by Bret Lott, first published in 1991. The story is set in the 1940s and 1950s in the United States and follows the life of a woman named Jewel Hilburn and her family.

Plot Summary

The novel begins in Mississippi in the 1940s, where Jewel Hilburn lives with her husband, Leston, and their five children. The family is of modest means, living off the land and working hard to make ends meet. Jewel's life takes a dramatic turn when she gives birth to her sixth child, Brenda Kay, who is diagnosed with Down syndrome.

Determined to provide the best life possible for Brenda Kay, Jewel embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. The family moves to California in search of better opportunities and medical care for Brenda Kay. Throughout the novel, Jewel faces numerous challenges, including societal prejudices, financial difficulties, and personal sacrifices. Her unwavering love and dedication to her daughter become the central themes of the story.

Characters

• Jewel Hilburn: The protagonist of the novel, a strong-willed and determined mother.
• Leston Hilburn: Jewel's supportive husband who works tirelessly to provide for the family.
• Brenda Kay Hilburn: Jewel and Leston's youngest daughter, born with Down syndrome.
• Wilman Hilburn: The eldest son, who helps his parents with the farm work.
• Annie Hilburn: The eldest daughter, who takes on a nurturing role within the family.
• Mary, Mattie, and Jason Hilburn: The other children in the Hilburn family.

Themes

The novel explores several themes, including:

• Motherhood: The story highlights the sacrifices and unconditional love of a mother for her child.
• Resilience: Jewel's determination to overcome obstacles and provide a better life for her daughter.
• Prejudice and Acceptance: The novel addresses societal attitudes towards individuals with disabilities and the journey towards acceptance and understanding.
• Family and Sacrifice: The importance of family support and the sacrifices made for the well-being of loved ones.

Setting

The novel is set primarily in Mississippi and California during the 1940s and 1950s. The contrasting settings highlight the cultural and social differences between the rural South and the more progressive West Coast.

Reception

Jewel received critical acclaim for its heartfelt portrayal of a mother's love and the challenges faced by families with children who have disabilities. The novel was praised for its emotional depth, character development, and realistic depiction of the time period.

Adaptations

In 2001, Jewel was adapted into a television film starring Farrah Fawcett as Jewel Hilburn. The film brought the story to a wider audience and received positive reviews for its faithful adaptation of the novel.

See Also

• Bret Lott
• Down syndrome
• Motherhood in literature
• 1940s in literature
• 1950s in literature