The Women in Black
The Women in Black
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1993
Book Brief
141
Novel • Fiction
Sydney, Australia • 1950s
1993
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
The Women in Black by Madeleine St John follows a group of women working in a Sydney department store in the 1950s. Each woman navigates personal and professional challenges, exploring themes of identity and societal expectations. The story highlights their friendships and growth over a transformative holiday season.
Humorous
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
15,390 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Women in Black by Madeleine St John is praised for its charming portrayal of 1950s Sydney and nuanced characters. Critics commend the witty, insightful narrative exploring gender and class. Some feel the plot is slight, but its elegant simplicity captivates readers, offering a delightful glimpse into a bygone era.
Who Should Read The Women in Black?
Readers who enjoy The Women in Black by Madeleine St John are often drawn to character-driven narratives with a touch of humor and social commentary, akin to fans of Jane Austen's Emma or Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kitteridge. They appreciate mid-20th-century settings and explorations of women's lives and aspirations.
15,390 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
141
Novel • Fiction
Sydney, Australia • 1950s
1993
Adult
16+ years
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