BOOK BRIEF

The Millstone

Margaret Drabble
Guide cover placeholder

The Millstone

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Margaret Drabble

The Millstone

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

British Literature
Setting

London, England • 1960s

Topic
Gender & Feminism

World History
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Millstone by Margaret Drabble explores the life of a young woman navigating unexpected single motherhood in 1960s London. The protagonist confronts societal expectations and personal challenges while discovering inner strength and independence. Through this journey, the narrative delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the complexities of modern womanhood.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Emotional

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.0

4,328 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Margaret Drabble's The Millstone is praised for its nuanced portrayal of single motherhood and societal pressures. The protagonist's journey evokes empathy, showcasing resilience and growth. Some readers find the narrative dated, reflecting outdated cultural norms. However, its literary style and character depth remain compelling, offering an insightful critique of 1960s London society.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Millstone?

Readers who enjoy The Millstone by Margaret Drabble likely appreciate character-driven narratives exploring themes of single motherhood and societal expectations. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing, which delve into women's inner struggles and independence, will find this novel compelling.

4.0

4,328 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

British Literature
Setting

London, England • 1960s

Topic
Gender & Feminism

World History
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!