The Secret Life of Bees START OF SECOND QUARTER!!

I have just started reading the secret life of bees by sue monk kidd, to start off this quarter. One of the first aspects of this novel that stands out is the fact that it is set almost seventy years ago in the early nineteen sixties, where the culture at the time was far different than it is now. It is also set in South Carolina where the atmosphere is worlds away than busy New York, so from the minute one opens up this book they are transported into a different world unlike our own. The main character is Lily Owens, a motherless daughter who is searching for family all around her. She, like many of the characters I have been reading about lately highlight woman's power and the power of the common person. An ordinary woman sends a powerful message as she tries to end racism in her area and stands up for her rights. So far, I am confused about the title of the novel, why the Secret Life of Bees? I could guess that the woman are going to encounter bee keepers of some sort and I am wondering if they can learn from the bees a lesson about human nature or human life. I cannot wait to find out. I am also wondering more about Lily's mother's past and the secrets that lie within it. So far i would recommend this book to any woman I know.