Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom
Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom
Book Brief
Beta40
Short Story • Fiction
Train Journey • Mid-20th century
2019
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
In "Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom" by Sylvia Plath, a woman named Mary is embarking on a mysterious train journey planned by her parents. As the train heads to an unknown destination, Mary encounters peculiar passengers and situations, gradually realizing the gravity of her journey and the decisions she must confront.
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
15,249 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom by Sylvia Plath showcases her signature style with haunting prose and vivid imagery. Positively, the story captivates with its exploration of existential themes and a surreal journey. However, some critique the narrative for its opacity and brevity, leaving readers desiring further development. Overall, it is a mesmerizing yet enigmatic tale.
Who Should Read Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom?
A reader captivated by existential themes and allegorical journeys would enjoy Sylvia Plath's Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom. Fans of Kafka's The Metamorphosis and Shirley Jackson's The Lottery will appreciate its psychological depth and surreal exploration of destiny.
15,249 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
*Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom* was an unpublished short story by Sylvia Plath written in 1952, discovered in the 2010s and published for the first time in 2019 by Faber & Faber.
The story was originally written as an assignment for a creative writing course at Smith College, where Plath was a student.
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The name "Mary Ventura" was inspired by Plath's college friend from Smith College, Mary Ellen Chase, highlighting the close connections in Plath's life and work.
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40
Short Story • Fiction
Train Journey • Mid-20th century
2019
Adult
14-18 years
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