The Hand-Maid's Tale is hauntingly good (Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood)

Member Name: Ice Princess

Product:	Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood
Date:	25/10/06 (171 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Can't put it down

Disadvantages: Depressing, could be a better ending

This is my first review of a book so I hope I do well!

Although not my favourite book I agree with the fact it's been put on the study lists for so many students taking qualification in English Literature. I think this book throws up so many questions, answers and gives a scary look into the possible future of our world!

The book is narrated by a lady called Offred (Of Fred) and gradually as you read the book you come to realise all the ladies who are hand-maidens are called this, Janine for example is called Offwarren (Of Warren) - they're named after their owners who are the Commanders and their wives.

Every aspect of the hand-maidens daily life is described in great detail, from shopping for the daily groceries, and why certain foods are not available (fish or certain fish are unavailable due to overfishing for example) to punishments, the horrific Salvagings.

Another reviewer described this book as hard to get into, I have to say I found this completely the opposite with me, I found this book incredibly compelling and will watch the film if it is ever on TV. It is one of those books I return to read because I find it to be so well written.

It is almost a cautionary tale in Western attitudes and lifestyles, the way the narrator describes how the world changed very suddenly, I'd say overnight only it didn't happen overnight, into a Hand-maiden world.

I do agree with other reviewers in the ending of the book, what happened to the narrator, after the ending? was she executed or did she escape? did the hand-maiden world change into a more normal world? The information at the back of the book gives little clue and is quite frustrating from my point of view. Good for discussion purposes.

I like other Margaret Atwood books too, especially Alias Grace but The Hand-Maiden's Tale is so compelling it ties for favourite with Alias Grace.

If you haven't read it give it a try.

Summary: a great read