Mad Men was a period show that captivated audiences with its insight into the complexities of 1960s society. From the outside perspective, the characters have seemingly successful careers and families, but behind the facade lies turmoil, doubts, and other challenges. If you loved exploring these themes in Mad Men, we’ve got some books for you!
Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates ($18, shop here)
Mad Men’s exploration of unfulfilled aspirations, disillusionment with the American dream, and gender roles struck a chord with many. Revolutionary Road, a book that mirrors these themes, tells the tragic story of Frank and April Wheeler, revealing the stark contrast between their public personas and inner turmoil.
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin ($19, shop here)
The Swans of Fifth Avenue, set in the same period as Mad Men in New York City, immediately brings us back to the world created by the show. It centers around author Truman Capote and prominent socialite Babe Paley. Like in the series, we are exposed to the glamorous and often secretive world of privileged individuals, showcasing their opulent lifestyles, social gatherings, and hidden desires with a more historically accurate approach.
Gate City by Michael Davidow ($14.95, shop here)
Gate City takes place in 1960s Los Angeles, where the two protagonists, Jack Mercer and Henry Bell, are working on an election campaign. Like Mad Men’s exploration of the advertising industry, Gate City explores the gray areas of political ambition, highlighting how characters navigate difficult choices in their pursuit of power.
Park Avenue Summer by Renee Rosen ($19, shop here)
Park Avenue Summer is described as Mad Men meets The Devil Wears Prada. It takes place in 1965 New York City, where Cosmopolitan Editor-in-Chief Helen Gurley Brown covers hot topics. Stepping into Helen’s fast-paced world is Alice, a fresh-faced Midwesterner. Both women face the daunting task of navigating the high-pressure world of publishing, a whirlwind akin to the cutthroat world of Mad Men.
The Group by Mary McCarthy ($19.99, shop here)
The Group is a novel based on a group of ambitious female Vassar graduates defying limitations and striving for individual fulfillment. Life brings the women together and apart, but through it all, their goal is to grow and not fall into the same roles as their parents.
Have you read any of these books? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!