The Handmaid’s Tale

by

Margaret Atwood

Should you read this book?

The best public reviews summarized for you.

Who is this book for?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking dystopian fiction.
  • Feminists and those interested in women's rights issues.
  • Fans of literary fiction with poetic prose.
  • Those who like stories that spark discussion of social and political issues.
  • Readers who appreciate complex female protagonists.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

  • Those who prefer fast-paced, action-driven plots.
  • Readers who dislike ambiguous endings or unresolved storylines.
  • People who are uncomfortable with dark, disturbing content.
  • Those who struggle with non-linear narratives or unconventional writing styles.
  • Readers looking for a more optimistic or uplifting story.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

  • Powerful and thought-provoking dystopian story
  • Chilling portrayal of a totalitarian theocracy
  • Explores themes of women's rights, reproductive freedom, and oppression
  • Vivid and poetic prose style
  • Complex and nuanced characters, especially the protagonist Offred
  • Builds an immersive and believable dystopian world
  • Serves as a cautionary tale about extremism and loss of rights
  • Tackles important feminist issues
  • Haunting and memorable imagery and scenes
  • Sparks important discussions about gender, power, and politics

Things people didn't like as much about this book

  • Some find the writing style and lack of quotation marks difficult to follow
  • The dystopian premise requires suspension of disbelief for some readers
  • Pacing can be slow at times with limited action
  • Ambiguous ending frustrates some readers
  • Depressing and disturbing content is emotionally draining
  • Some feel it doesn't fully explain how the dystopian society came to be
  • Portrayal of men is seen as one-dimensional by some
  • Religious themes may be off-putting to some readers
  • The narrative structure with flashbacks can be confusing
  • Some find the protagonist passive or hard to connect with

If you like this book, you should consider reading:

by Octavia E. Butler

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