A review by francoise
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

dark emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

I enjoyed The Bell Jar because each relationship Esther had in the bell jar all reflected various themes that were relatable. I felt that her relationship with her mother was most significant although not talked about as often as her relationship with Buddy. Although quite loving, she never truly understood her own daughter and only wanted her to fit societal expectations. As the reader, I felt the detachment strongly and how realistic it was. Plath did so well in portraying challenges that we (women) face and her use of words in general string so well together. 
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