The Stepford Wives by Ira Levin (1972)
A satirical domestic thriller set in 1970s suburbia.
Laura’s Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Plot: Joanna and her husband, Walter, move their family to the beautiful and idyllic town of Stepford. In Stepford, the homes are pristine, the wives are pretty, and everything seems perfect. But why are all the women so docile and housework obsessed? What is going on at the mysterious Men’s Association? Joanna begins to suspect that things in Stepford are not as perfect as they seem.
Analysis: I really enjoyed this book. Because of the book’s wide reaching cultural impact, I knew the basic premise of the story. Fortunately, I didn’t know the entire plot so the book was still intense and suspenseful. Details were perfectly woven into the story and there was just enough foreshadowing and clues to keep the reader hooked without giving it all away. My only critique was that some of the writing itself could have been better quality.
There is obvious social commentary in The Stepford Wives about the women’s liberation movement and women’s roles in society that is still relevant today (as evidenced by more current media like Don’t Worry Darling). I’d recommend this book for fans of thrillers, sci-fi, and domestic drama.
Be on the look out for a review of both movie versions coming soon!
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