52 pages • 1 hour read
Heather MarshallLooking for Jane
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall is a historical fiction set in Toronto, spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s. It interweaves the lives of three women—Angela, Evelyn, and Nancy—who are impacted by Canada's struggle for reproductive rights and are connected through a clandestine network called the Jane Network that provides illegal abortion services. Misdelivered letters spark a quest that uncovers deep personal histories and shared connections through generations. This novel includes descriptions of abortion, miscarriage, death by suicide, and sexual assault.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall is lauded for its compelling narrative and the depth of its characters. Readers appreciate the emotive portrayal of women's rights and personal struggle. However, some find it occasionally predictable or melodramatic. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read with a strong emotional impact, though not without its minor faults.
Who Should Read Looking for Jane?
Readers who would enjoy Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall are likely fans of poignant historical fiction with strong female protagonists. Comparable to The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline, this novel appeals to those interested in women's rights, social history, and intertwining narratives across different eras.