Excellent Women
Excellent Women
Book Brief
Beta231
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 1950s
2006
Adult
18+ years
940L
Super Short Summary
In Excellent Women by Barbara Pym, a single woman in 1950s London becomes entangled in the lives of her neighbors and friends, navigating social expectations and personal relationships within her close-knit community. Her observations and interactions offer a witty and poignant commentary on mid-20th century life.
Reviews & Readership
22,633 ratings
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Review Roundup
Excellent Women by Barbara Pym receives praise for its witty, sharp observations of post-war British society and the nuanced portrayal of the protagonist, Mildred Lathbury. Critics appreciate the humor and depth, though some find the pacing slow. Overall, Pym's character-driven narrative and keen social insights make it a delightful read for fans of quiet, reflective fiction.
Who Should Read Excellent Women?
Readers who enjoy Jane Austen's societal insights and the domestic charm found in Elizabeth Gaskell's Cranford will appreciate Excellent Women. This book appeals to those who savor witty, character-driven narratives set in mid-20th-century England, focusing on the nuanced lives of unassuming yet observant women.
22,633 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Barbara Pym's Excellent Women was published in 1952 and is often considered one of her most enduring and popular novels, showcasing her ironic and comedic writing style.
The novel was ranked by The Guardian as one of the top 100 best novels written, highlighting its enduring popularity and impact in British literature.
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Barbara Pym herself worked at the International African Institute for much of her career, an experience that influenced her portrayal of academic and ecclesiastical communities in Excellent Women.
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231
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 1950s
2006
Adult
18+ years
940L
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