The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing receives high praise for its innovative structure and its deep exploration of women's issues, mental health, and political ideologies. Critics laud Lessing's complex narrative and character development. However, some find the novel's experimental form and length challenging. Overall, it's regarded as a thought-provoking classic.

Readers who enjoy The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing are typically attracted to complex narratives that explore themes like feminism, mental health, and political ideologies. Fans of Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway or Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar would appreciate Lessing’s in-depth character studies and fragmented storytelling.

The Golden Notebook follows Anna Wulf, a writer struggling with creative block following the success of her first novel, as she grapples with personal and societal upheavals in 1950s London. She keeps four color-coded notebooks, each dedicated to different aspects of her life, culminating in a unified "golden notebook" that helps her reconcile her fragmented identity and resume writing. The novel includes depictions of suicidal ideation and a suicide attempt.

Contemplative / Emotional / Challenging / Melancholic / Bittersweet

- The Golden Notebook was first published in 1962 and is considered a seminal work of feminist literature, influencing the women's liberation movement in the 1960s and 1970s. 
- In 2005, The Golden Notebook was listed by TIME magazine as one of the 100 best English-language novels published since 1923.

**Anna Wulf**  
A complex character who fulfills dual roles as both the protagonist and the writer within the story, involved in exploring themes of independence and creativity through her experiences and relationships.

**Molly Jacobs**  
Anna’s friend who navigates the challenges of being an independent woman in the 1950s, balancing her personal desires with family responsibilities.

**Saul Green**  
One of Anna’s more distinct lovers, who plays a key role in her creative journey and personal development, influencing her writing process.

**Richard**  
Molly’s ex-husband, who embodies traditional values and represents the conservative societal expectations that contrast with the novel’s central female characters.

**Tommy**  
Molly's son in "Free Women," depicted as a representative of the younger generation grappling with confusion and searching for direction.

Doris Lessing

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Golden Notebook reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Golden Notebook | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Golden Notebook and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Golden Notebook Summary

Background

The Golden Notebook Background

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section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Free Women: 1”

Part 1 The Golden Notebook Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Notebooks”

Part 2, Chapters 1-4

The Golden Notebook Part 2, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Free Women: 2”

Part 3 The Golden Notebook Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Notebooks”

Part 4, Chapters 1-4

The Golden Notebook Part 4, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Free Women: 3”

Part 5 The Golden Notebook Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “The Notebooks”

Part 6, Chapters 1-4

The Golden Notebook Part 6, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Free Women: 4”

Part 7 The Golden Notebook Part 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8: “The Notebooks”

Part 8, Chapters 1-4

The Golden Notebook Part 8, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 9 The Golden Notebook Part 9 Summary & Analysis

Part 10: “Free Women: 5”

Part 10 The Golden Notebook Part 10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Golden Notebook Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Golden Notebook Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Golden Notebook Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Golden Notebook Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Golden Notebook Essay Topics

The Golden Notebook Further Reading & Resources

The Golden Notebook

Before You Read

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Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Golden Notebook?

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Book Details