The Big Girls : Book Review

"The Big Girls" by Susanna Moore is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking novel that immerses readers in the complex lives of women confined to a mental institution during the 1970s. Through her elegant and evocative writing, Moore delves deep into the emotions and experiences of the characters, making them come alive on the pages.

At its core, this novel explores the themes of power and control within the oppressive and hierarchical environment of the institution. Moore skillfully depicts the power dynamics between the patients and the staff, revealing the ways in which the women are both controlled and suppressed. Through the perspectives of the various characters, the author uncovers the society's tendency to define and marginalize women, particularly those deemed "mentally unstable."

One captivating aspect of the book is Moore's fearless exploration of female sexuality. She delves into the characters' sexual desires and experiences, challenging societal norms and expectations. By presenting explicit and honest portrayals of sexuality, Moore adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a visceral level.

The prose in "The Big Girls" is exquisitely crafted, with lyrical descriptions that bring the mental institution and its inhabitants to life. Moore's attention to detail is exemplary, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with a gradual buildup of suspense and tension that keeps readers engaged until the very end.

Overall, "The Big Girls" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the lives of incarcerated women, exploring themes of power, control, and sexuality. Susanna Moore's elegant prose and compelling characters make this book a must-read for anyone interested in feminist literature or psychological fiction.

What are readers saying?

Susanna Moore's novel, "The Big Girls," has received a variety of opinions from readers. Some praised the book for its thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative, while others were disappointed by its lack of depth and inability to fully engage them.

Many readers commended Moore for her sensitive and insightful approach to tackling difficult subject matter. They found the portrayal of characters, particularly the female inmates in a mental institution, to be authentic and compelling. The exploration of power dynamics and the experiences of women in a patriarchal society struck a chord with these readers, who found the story to be deep and complex.

However, not all readers felt the same way. Some noted that the pacing of the narrative was slow and found the plot development lacking. These readers felt that the story failed to fully capture their attention and left them wanting more.

Another common critique of the book was the lack of character development. Some readers felt that the characters, especially the protagonist, lacked depth and remained one-dimensional throughout the story. This made it difficult for them to emotionally connect with the characters.

Despite the mixed reviews, there were still readers who found "The Big Girls" to be a thought-provoking and engaging read. They appreciated Moore's skillful writing and the exploration of complex themes such as mental illness and power dynamics. However, for others, the slow pacing and lack of character development detracted from their overall enjoyment of the book.

TheBigGirls BodyPositivity EmbraceYourself