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3.71 AVERAGE
3.71 AVERAGE
A chapter in I was all "nah, not for me." 3 hours later...
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
The Red Clocks by Leni Zumas is a compelling novel that delves into the complexities of women’s reproductive rights and the societal pressures women face. While it carries a dystopian backdrop, it feels incredibly contemporary, reflecting the ongoing struggles around women’s autonomy and freedom. Although the dystopian elements might not typically appeal to all readers, the novel’s sharp commentary on women’s rights makes it a unique and disturbing read that feels deeply relevant in today’s world.
Red Clocks by Leni Zumas is a fascinating, thought-provoking novel that delves into the lives of several women grappling with reproductive issues in a near-future where abortion and IVF are outlawed. What makes Red Clocks particularly compelling is how it tackles the intersection of women’s sexual health, autonomy, and societal expectations from multiple perspectives and across different age groups.
What stood out to me the most was how the novel doesn't rely on easy or predictable conclusions. It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book with a truly satisfying ending, and Red Clocks delivered just that. Without giving away any spoilers, I was impressed by how the story didn’t take the obvious path, but instead followed a more realistic, nuanced direction—something that feels true to life, especially when dealing with topics as complex as reproductive rights and personal agency.
As a woman who has had children but, due to long-standing reproductive health issues, can no longer have more at a relatively young age, I found myself deeply connecting with the emotions of many of the characters. Each woman's journey felt real to me, whether they were yearning for motherhood, coming to terms with the end of their reproductive years, or grappling with the restrictions placed on their bodies by the state. Zumas handles these issues with care and a deep understanding of the myriad ways women experience their bodies.
Overall, Red Clocks is a powerful and layered narrative that forces readers to think critically about the future of women's rights, while also offering a deeply personal look at the intimate struggles so many women face. This is definitely a book that stays with you long after you’ve finished it.
What stood out to me the most was how the novel doesn't rely on easy or predictable conclusions. It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book with a truly satisfying ending, and Red Clocks delivered just that. Without giving away any spoilers, I was impressed by how the story didn’t take the obvious path, but instead followed a more realistic, nuanced direction—something that feels true to life, especially when dealing with topics as complex as reproductive rights and personal agency.
As a woman who has had children but, due to long-standing reproductive health issues, can no longer have more at a relatively young age, I found myself deeply connecting with the emotions of many of the characters. Each woman's journey felt real to me, whether they were yearning for motherhood, coming to terms with the end of their reproductive years, or grappling with the restrictions placed on their bodies by the state. Zumas handles these issues with care and a deep understanding of the myriad ways women experience their bodies.
Overall, Red Clocks is a powerful and layered narrative that forces readers to think critically about the future of women's rights, while also offering a deeply personal look at the intimate struggles so many women face. This is definitely a book that stays with you long after you’ve finished it.
Shades of the Handmaid’s tale, this features 5 women, impacted by government control of their reproductive rights. Enjoyed it, but it did not overwhelm me.
this is a good book, worth a read. Though I wish it had gone further with the concept.
dark
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I have had this book on my shelf for a few years now and I guess this was finally the appropriate time to read it, for I devoured it quite quickly. This is a world where the author describes 4 women (a wife, mender, daughter, and biographer) along with a historical woman who dared to explore the Arctic with men mixed in that the biographer is writing about. All of this is in the backdrop of the overturning of Roe vs Wade. I wonder how the author feels now, since that indeed did happen and whether the author would alter any part of her novel now?
This novel I am thankful I read now for Roe vs Wade has already been overturned and within this novel some horrors are discussed that could still come to fruition if we don't stand up for women's rights. The part where Canada turns away women from entering I hope never comes about.
Overall, I loved the interwoven stories, the multiple perspectives, and the theme about choices that was the main point, I believe, throughout. A novel I am thankful I have in my own collection and hope to let others borrow as well. A highly recommended novel in our era of post Roe vs Wade.
This novel I am thankful I read now for Roe vs Wade has already been overturned and within this novel some horrors are discussed that could still come to fruition if we don't stand up for women's rights. The part where Canada turns away women from entering I hope never comes about.
Overall, I loved the interwoven stories, the multiple perspectives, and the theme about choices that was the main point, I believe, throughout. A novel I am thankful I have in my own collection and hope to let others borrow as well. A highly recommended novel in our era of post Roe vs Wade.
So good. Finished it in 3 days!
In the near future, male-supremacist legislators repeal roe v Wade, and imprison “seekers” of abortions. The novel weaves the story of 5 different women:
- young girl, seeking abortion
- middle age teacher, single but wants a child
- wife & mother who wants a different life
- witch, forest dweller, healer who is mistrusted
- 19th century arctic explorer
Reminded me of Margaret Atwood in all the best ways. Also reminded me of Liz Gilbert’s novel & her discussion of the hero’s journey. I related to each of the women in a different way - their innocence, their desires, their fortitude, their fears. This story is going to stick with me for a while.
In the near future, male-supremacist legislators repeal roe v Wade, and imprison “seekers” of abortions. The novel weaves the story of 5 different women:
- young girl, seeking abortion
- middle age teacher, single but wants a child
- wife & mother who wants a different life
- witch, forest dweller, healer who is mistrusted
- 19th century arctic explorer
Reminded me of Margaret Atwood in all the best ways. Also reminded me of Liz Gilbert’s novel & her discussion of the hero’s journey. I related to each of the women in a different way - their innocence, their desires, their fortitude, their fears. This story is going to stick with me for a while.
Took some time to get into the narrative device, but so so worth it
dark
emotional
medium-paced