Jam packed with dystopian tid bits of delight, The Handmaid's Tale is my new IT book for the dystopian literature unit for my seniors (OMG, I feel like how Oprah must feel when she recommends something - note my sarcasm, please). From the symbolism nearly bleeding from page to page, I was entranced with the story line, actually cared about the main character, and I didn't want the story to end. I finished the last page, loved it, and wanted a sequel. Then again, I don't want a sequel. It is what it is, and it's perfectly complete. But I still want more.
The sex scenes were tame compared to other books I've read, but it's definitely not for the... prude? I have been searching for a dystopian novel with a female perspective and now I have found it. The end.
challenging dark sad
challenging
challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
dark reflective tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

An amazing read, after almost 40 years from its publication date, had my jaw dropped multiple times. Dystopian future meets religion meets wtf! A great read recommend it to all!
dark reflective tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

I'm very glad to have finally read this. I think it's very interesting to view this world through the eyes of someone who remains quite passive. She has moments of rebellion, whether it's talking back to the Commander behind closed doors or joining in on sharing news. That being said, it's very clear that other characters have more of an impact on the plot behind the scenes.

The most important thing she brings to the table is information. She meticulously recalls what she witnesses and experiences, even going so far as to inform the reader of when her memory may be hazy of her judgement clouded. 

I do believe this book is a must read, especially in times like these. You can see why it's been banned in some of the more conservative states.

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Not the books fault, but I felt this has been bigged up a lot and I thought Offred would do more??