Who Would Like This Book:
If you’re looking for a bold, trailblazing lesbian coming-of-age story, Rubyfruit Jungle is a must-read. Molly Bolt, the witty, irrepressible protagonist, is a whirlwind of ambition and self-acceptance as she navigates a world that’s not built for women like her. Brown’s frank, often hilarious take on sex, sexism, and homophobia made this groundbreaking in the ‘70s, and it’s still worth a read for anyone interested in queer literary history, unapologetic female characters, and stories of resilience. Perfect for those who love strong-willed heroines, rebellious spirits, and a slice of LGBTQ+ herstory.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Modern readers may find the book’s style a bit dated and its storytelling direct to the point of bluntness, with some uneven character development. Molly’s perfect confidence and the author’s heavy-handed messaging can come off as more lecture than lived-in narrative. Some may also feel uncomfortable with dated attitudes around gender roles and relationships or be put off by a lack of depth among secondary characters. If you prefer subtle, nuanced prose or dislike period piece vibes, this one might not be your cup of tea.
About:
"Rubyfruit Jungle" by Rita Mae Brown is a groundbreaking novel that follows the story of Molly Bolt, a strong and determined protagonist navigating her way through the challenges of growing up as a lesbian in America during the 1950s and 1960s. The book explores Molly's journey of self-discovery, sexual awakening, and her defiance against societal norms and expectations. The writing style is described as bawdy, moving, and humorous, with a focus on Molly's experiences in coming out and trying to establish herself as an independent woman. The plot delves into Molly's relationships, her aspirations, and her refusal to conform to traditional gender roles.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of homophobia, sexism, child abuse, and explicit sexual situations.
Has Romance?
There are significant romantic elements, with Molly engaging in multiple sexual and romantic relationships throughout the story.
From The Publisher:
"The rare work of fiction that has changed real life . . . If you don't yet know Molly Bolt-or Rita Mae Brown, who created her-I urge you to read and thank them both."-Gloria Steinem
Winner of the Lambda Literary Pioneer Award | Winner of the Lee Lynch Classic Book Award
A landmark coming-of-age novel that launched the career of one of this country's most distinctive voices, Rubyfruit Jungle remains a transformative work more than forty years after its original publication. In bawdy, moving prose, Rita Mae Brown tells the story of Molly Bolt, the adoptive daughter of a dirt-poor Southern couple who boldly forges her own path in America. With her startling beauty and crackling wit, Molly finds that women are drawn to her wherever she goes-and she refuses to apologize for loving them back. This literary milestone continues to resonate with its message about being true to yourself and, against the odds, living happily ever after.
Praise for Rubyfruit Jungle
"Groundbreaking."-The New York Times
"Powerful . . . a truly incredible book . . . I found myself laughing hysterically, then sobbing uncontrollably just moments later."-The Boston Globe
"You can't fully know-or enjoy-how much the world has changed without reading this truly wonderful book."-Andrew Tobias, author of The Best Little Boy in the World
"A crass and hilarious slice of growing up 'different,' as fun to read today as it was in 1973."-The Rumpus
"Molly Bolt is a genuine descendant-genuine female descendant-of Huckleberry Finn. And Rita Mae Brown is, like Mark Twain, a serious writer who gets her messages across through laughter."-Donna E. Shalala
"A trailblazing literary coup at publication . . . It was the right book at the right time."-Lee Lynch, author of Beggar of Love
Ratings (20)
Incredible (3) | |
Loved It (10) | |
Liked It (6) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (77):
Read It (21) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (41) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (13) |
1 comment(s)
Heartfelt and realistic, Brown's writing is worthy of the classroom.
What can you read after
Rubyfruit Jungle?
About the Author:
Rita Mae Brown is the bestselling author of the Sneaky Pie Brown series; the Sister Jane series; the Runnymede novels, including Six of One and Cakewalk; A Nose for Justice and Murder Unleashed; Rubyfruit Jungle; In Her Day; and many…
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