55 pages • 1 hour read
Valley of the Dolls
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Book Brief
442
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1940s
1966
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann follows the tumultuous lives of three young women, Anne, Jennifer, and Neely, who meet in New York City in 1945. As they pursue their careers and navigate relationships, they grapple with challenges posed by the male-dominated society and their increasing dependency on drugs, referred to as "dolls." The novel explores themes of ambition, love, and the harsh realities of show business. The story addresses sensitive topics including drug use and mental health struggles.
Melancholic
Dark
Emotional
Bittersweet
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
76,353 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jacqueline Susann's Valley of the Dolls captivates with its gritty portrayal of fame and addiction. Critics laud its bold narrative and compelling characters, while some criticize its melodramatic tone and sensationalism. Despite mixed reviews, it remains a seminal work for its daring exploration of taboo themes in the 1960s.
Who Should Read Valley of the Dolls?
A reader who enjoys Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann is likely intrigued by the glitzy and turbulent lives of women striving for fame and success. Fans of dramatic and glamorous narratives similar to those in Peyton Place by Grace Metalious and The Best of Everything by Rona Jaffe would also find this novel compelling.
76,353 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Neely O’Hara
Neely O’Hara
A teenage singer and dancer who rises to fame on Broadway and in Hollywood, known for her lively personality and strong ambition.
Jennifer North
Jennifer North
A beautiful young woman who starts as a schoolgirl in Switzerland, later striving to support her family through a series of high-profile and tumultuous relationships.
Lyon Burke
Lyon Burke
An attorney and soldier returning from World War II, who becomes romantically involved with Anne Welles and pursues a writing career.
Henry Bellamy
Henry Bellamy
A senior partner at a law firm who mentors Anne and provides her with guidance in the bustling world of show business.
Helen Lawson
Helen Lawson
A major Broadway star, known for her demanding and brassy nature, who struggles to maintain personal relationships.
Tony Polar
Tony Polar
A popular singer with a developmental disability, who marries Jennifer North but prioritizes his career over their relationship.
Miriam Polar
Miriam Polar
Tony’s protective sister, who is both his confidante and manager, deeply involved in his personal and professional life.
Allen Cooper
Allen Cooper
The wealthy heir of a real estate tycoon who wishes to marry Anne Welles.
Kevin Gillmore
Kevin Gillmore
A cosmetics company president who identifies Anne as the perfect fit for his brand, leading to her career success as the Gillian Girl.
Mel Harris
Mel Harris
A press agent who writes favorable articles about Neely and follows her to Hollywood as her husband.
Ted Casablanca
Ted Casablanca
A Hollywood makeup artist known for his bisexuality, who becomes romantically involved with Neely.
442
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1940s
1966
Adult
18+ years
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