The Ha-Ha(1961)

Jennifer Dawson

A prizewinning, semi-autobiographical debut novel that explores a young woman’s struggle with mental illness at Oxford University in the 1950s—for readers of Ottessa Moshfegh, Melissa Broder, and Sally Rooney.

“I wanted the knack of existing. I did not know the rules.”

These words from Josephine, the heroine of Jennifer Dawson’s remarkable novel, encapsulate the journey of a young woman grappling with mental illness amidst the hallowed halls of Oxford University in the 1950s. Originally published in 1961, this novel met with critical acclaim, and is a rediscovered classic perfect for fans of Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar.

During her first year at university, Josephine experiences a breakdown following the death of her overbearing but beloved mother. She’s confined to a psychiatric institution, where she encounters the harsh forms of treatment offered at that time. Amidst the turmoil, she finds an unexpected connection with Alasdair, a fellow patient, igniting a journey towards recovery.

Praised as “luminous” by The New York Times and “a singular, elegant novel” by The Guardian, and with a new introduction by Milk Fed author Melissa Broder, The Ha-Ha offers a moving and fresh perspective on struggles with mental health and the process of self-discovery.