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A review by brooke_city
Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
TW for pill addiction, suicide
This was pretty progressive for a novel written in the 60s. With the emergence of women's lib, women wrestled for control of their lives. Yes, there's cattiness and drama, but also important themes.
Helen was the most feminist leaning. She works hard to afford the life of luxury she wants, and she isn't afraid to be forthcoming about wanting men for sex. And of course, everyone labeled her as "difficult."
Anne started out firm, but became a doormat for Lyon. For why. What did he bring to her life. Girl stand up!
Jennifer's is perhaps the most tragic. There's a scene in which she is sexually assaulted while on the phone with Anne. Though, in the 60s, it wouldn't have been seen that way. She later has an abortion bc her husband has a mental illness that can be passed on genetically. She also discovers she has polyps on her ovaries, and a malignant tumor on her breast. She commits suicide. All important issues for a novel in the 60s, although a lot for 1 character.
Neely struggles with addiction, overdosing, and spends time in rehab.
This was pretty progressive for a novel written in the 60s. With the emergence of women's lib, women wrestled for control of their lives. Yes, there's cattiness and drama, but also important themes.
Helen was the most feminist leaning. She works hard to afford the life of luxury she wants, and she isn't afraid to be forthcoming about wanting men for sex. And of course, everyone labeled her as "difficult."
Anne started out firm, but became a doormat for Lyon. For why. What did he bring to her life. Girl stand up!
Jennifer's is perhaps the most tragic. There's a scene in which she is sexually assaulted while on the phone with Anne. Though, in the 60s, it wouldn't have been seen that way. She later has an abortion bc her husband has a mental illness that can be passed on genetically. She also discovers she has polyps on her ovaries, and a malignant tumor on her breast. She commits suicide. All important issues for a novel in the 60s, although a lot for 1 character.
Neely struggles with addiction, overdosing, and spends time in rehab.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny and Addiction
Moderate: Abortion and Suicide
Minor: Fatphobia