The Handmaid’s Tale was recommended to be my my good friend Jessica and is simultaneously one of the most beautiful and devastating books I have read recently. I know these two adjectives may not used by everyone who has read this book, but I think it’s important to understand the grace and elegance of Margaret Atwood’s writing, while considering a potentially horrific future.
The story beings in the “Republic of Gilead” which was the former United States of America. A military coup had killed the President and removed Congress of all power. They assure the public it’s only temporary, and new elections are on their way…but the elections are never established. Soon gays, lesbians, atheists, and women who are able to reproduce are being captured and “re-educated.” This book follows the story of Offred, a slave name meaning “Of Fred” indicating to whom the Handmaid belongs to. However, Offred lived in the former U.S. and therefore, can remember how her life was prior to the revolution. The novel jumps from the present narrative to the past to allow the reader to better understand the protagonist. Each month, Offred has to lay on her back and pray the Commander makes her pregnant, otherwise, she can be sent to the Colonies (where the Unwomen are sent).
The beauty of this novel is in the imagery Atwood creates. You can visualize the way this totalitarian government is controlling the populous and the lengths the characters go to in order to feel in control of their lives. The setting and circumstances surrounding this novel pull the reader in, enticing you to read more. The novel is devastating due to the harsh conditions each character faces, despite the fact it may appear men are in control, they too have a story to tell. The ending of the novel to me is the best part…it forced me to think of all the possibilities of Offred’s life since the author does not bring the story to a typical conclusion. You are left wondering what will happen to Offred…is there a sequel…will she survive???? I HIGHLY recommend this book!!






