The Book Club for Troublesome Women

Margaret’s writing is so popular that the magazine asks her to write for every issue instead of monthly. Invigorated, she uses her new income to buy the typewriter she has been renting, which she has named Sylvia. However, as much as she loves her job, Margaret worries that her writing is too frivolous, considering everything going on in the world. Every time she tries to sneak something more meaningful into her writing, Mr. Clement edits it out and subtly threatens to fire her if she doesn’t “stick to the script” (185). Adding to Margaret’s discomfort, he has recently asked her to write a piece featuring diet gelatin, one of their advertisers. Margaret feels she has no choice but to comply.

In June of 1963, the Bettys gather to discuss Dearly Beloved by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Charlotte is unable to make it as she is busy preparing Denise’s graduation party. Bitsy breaks the double good news that Delilah seems to be recovering, and she might be pregnant. Things with King are okay, too; after their initial fight, he disappeared for five whole days. He returned with roses and an apology, and while Bitsy let him stew for a while, she eventually forgave him.