A review by madamelacy
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

challenging dark emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

The version I had was on audible, beautifully read by Maggie Gylenhall. 

The story gives a really good account of what it’s like to live under the constant fog of depression. It’s also a story of being an intelligent woman and struggling to fit in. It wasn’t an easy listen as it dealt with suicidal ideation and Electro-convulsive shock therapy. I would say this is an important book to read, especially if you don’t have mental health problems, so that you can understand what goes on inside the head of someone with depression. As someone with mental health issues, I saw myself within the story. 

Esther, the main character, is obviously based on Sylvia Plath, which gives the story an extra dose of sadness knowing what happened to Plath. 

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