freya__b 's review for:

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

4.25

challenging dark emotional funny sad 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: Yes

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A challenging book, that explains complex emotions in beautiful language. Shown and not told how Esther was feeling. She's horrible for most of the time, but I still find myself rooting for her. You're really in her headspace. Very forward thinking for the 60s and some of the commentary is still incredibly relevant, espcially around women's roles in modern society. The graphic scenes and racism meant that I can't give it 5 stars, but it's a story that will always stay with me. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Chronic illness, Death, Mental illness, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Racism, Rape, Self harm, Sexual assault, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Violence, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Medical content, Grief, Medical trauma, Suicide attempt, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail