Review of ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ by Ira Levin

This is a brilliant and sinister read. The film is better known than the book. I wasn’t even aware that there was a book until recently.

The story follows Rosemary Woodhouse, who moves into a New York apartment block with her husband, Guy. The block has a reputation for terrible things happening, but it’s a fashionable location. While Guy builds his career as an actor, Rosemary busies herself decorating the apartment and longing for a baby. Finally her wish comes true. Their elderly neighbours, the Castevets, are extremely friendly but there is something odd about them. Why are they so interested in the baby and why is Guy spending so much time with them? And who can Rosemary trust?

Not simply a scary novel, Rosemary’s Baby investigates both the horrors and joys of motherhood. It also examines how far people will go to further their careers, whether doctors really do have patients’ best interests at heart and the power of belief. 1960s New York is also an interesting and unlikely setting for satanic rituals, which is partly why Rosemary questions her own observations so much. The relationship between her and Guy is a focus too, with their communication breaking down. The horror in the novel is gradual and creeping. At only 229 pages it’s also easy to read, with a straightforward style.

First published in 1967. This 2011 Corsair edition has a good introduction by Chuck Palahniuk.


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Comments

16 responses to “Review of ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ by Ira Levin”

  1. nickimags @ The Secret Library Book Blog avatar

    Fantastic review! Glad you enjoyed it!

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      Thanks! ๐Ÿ˜Š

  2. Callum McLaughlin avatar

    Glad you enjoyed this one! It has really stayed with me.

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      Thank you โ˜บ it’s on my ‘to keep’ shelf as I’m sure to re-read.

  3. lydiaschoch avatar
    lydiaschoch

    I had no idea this was a novel! I liked the movie, so I’ll have to give the book a try sometime as well.

    Great review.

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      I’m sure you would like the novel! I think the film is v close to it ๐Ÿ˜Š

  4. alwaysneedmorebooks avatar

    Really like the sound of this one – I remember being spooked by the film when I was younger so I’ll try this one day!

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      I really recommend it! As creepy as the film โ˜บ

  5. R A I N avatar

    I read Woodehouse and my mind instantly thought about Emma!! ๐Ÿคฃ๐Ÿคฃ

    I have heard a LOT about this one but I kept putting it off. Can do that no more, I guess because DAMN YOUR REVIEW!! โค๏ธ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ Loved it, Ford! I am sooo glad you enjoyed reading this one! โค๏ธโค๏ธ

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      I am a fan of Emma Woodhouse too ๐Ÿ˜‰ I hope you like this book when you get round to it, definitely add to your tbr! ๐Ÿ’œ

      1. R A I N avatar

        I already did! ๐Ÿ˜โค๏ธ๐Ÿ‘ป๐Ÿ‘ป๐Ÿ’•โ˜”๏ธ

  6. stargazer avatar

    I loved the movie! I am tempted to read the book as well, but I wonder if it can live up to the movie.

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      It can be difficult to compare books to films. But I would say go for it if you’re curious ๐Ÿ˜Š

  7. Silver Screenings avatar

    I didn’t realize the film was based on a novel, either. Sounds like a pretty good read. ๐Ÿ™‚

    1. nsford avatar
      nsford

      It’s a very good read, I recommend it!

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