A review by shakespeareantragedy
The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

challenging dark reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Depressing, highly readable, and absolutely bloody ingenious, The Penelopiad is one of the only books I've ever been able to read in one sitting. The mundanity with which the narrator recounts the horrors she was subjected to VERY effectively emphasizes the ways in which they are perpetuated by both current and past cultures. Possibly my favourite format of storytelling ever.
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