Author : Rachel Iynn Solomon

Suggested reader age : 18+

Publishing House : Penguin Books Ltd

Synopsis: The female mind can be more complex than you can imagine and “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath proves just that. The novel is semi-autobiographical and follows Esther Greenwood, a talented young woman from the suburbs of Boston, during the 1950s. Esther wins a summer internship at a prominent fashion magazine in New York City, where she experiences the excitement and pressures of urban life. However, as she confronts the expectations and limitations placed on women in society, Esther's mental health begins to deteriorate. Struggling with existential angst, self-doubt, and the feeling of being trapped under a figurative bell jar, Esther descends into a deep depression. Her relationships with friends, mentors, and romantic interests become strained as she grapples with her identity and future. Despite seeking treatment through therapy and hospitalization, Esther's mental state continues to decline, leading to a profound exploration of mental illness and the stigma surrounding it.” The Bell Jar"is a poignant novel that delves into themes of gender roles, societal pressures, and the search for personal identity. A cup of Hauting Instrospection? Yes please.