itsgeesus 's review for:

THE BELL JAR by Sylvia Plath

3.75

dark reflective sad tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

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Plath offers a decent insight into the mind of someone who puts too much pressure and expectations on themselves. Esther’s blunt personality was a highlight, and was actually the first thing that drew me into the novel. The plot was executed well, I could easily sit and read this for hours. I also really appreciated the small moments of societal criticism, it wasn’t too in the face that sometimes takes away from the actual storytelling, but it was enough for Plath to get her point across. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Mental illness, Suicide, Suicide attempt

Moderate: Racial slurs, Racism

Minor: Sexual content, Sexual violence, Sexual harassment

There are some racial slurs/racially motivated bullying that are mentioned periodically throughout the book that can cause distress.