A typical futuristic tale from Margaret Atwood
An interesting read from Margaret Atwood.

This is definitely a story noire, set in the not too distant future in a dictatorial, 'Orwellian' society . Life is a struggle and one does whatever one has to do to get by. And whatever one has to do, is usually controlled by the state.

I like Margaret Atwood's style of story telling; she takes a decidedly different plot and surrounds it with interesting characters and circumstances. As with most of her books, there are a few twists and turns along the way to keep you on your toes.

Conclusion:
Not a particularly happy story, but intriguing enough to keep the pages turning, IF, you don't mind a somewhat Draconian tale right out of "1984". If you can deal with the subject matter at hand and if you like Atwood's style, you'll enjoy (or at least appreciate) 'The Handmaid's Tale'.

Ray Nicholson

A story without a story
If you are looking for a fascinating plot, The Handmaid's Tale might not be for you. In re-creating her dystopic, monotonous world, the typical event structure of novels is sacrificed. The setting and characters, however, are incredibly well-thought-out and detailed. From clothing to titles to shopping methods to coming-of-age ceremonies, Atwood has left nothing out. There is no real beginning, and no real ending either--just a slow march of pages (indeed, there are at least three chapters entitled "Night") that still keep you enraptured and horrified.

While a fascinating book, The Handmaid's Tale is an exercise in imagination and thus might not be for everyone. However, if you have an interest in women's issues, this book is almost required reading.

A timeless classic with a unique concept!
I'm fascinated by the reviews that indicate this book is now assigned in English Lit classes. That alone is testament for reading this book. I read it for the first time nearly twenty years ago. As an avid reader, and a re-reader - it stills stands out for it's unique concept and characters - regardless of your political beliefs (and given when it was written - I'd encourage even younger readers to be a bit less skeptical about it's political agenda).Well-executed "what if" concepts with characters you care about can be hard to come by.

This is a book that intrigued me from beginning to end--- twice. Having seen the movie (a huge dissappointment - that reflects 1/1000th of the book) and read other Atwood books (thinking - way back when - that I'd discovered a great new writer) I unequivocably recommend this book - and urge you to avoid the movie and not have such great expectations for her other works.

If you find you like delving into a unique, character driven "what if" scenario (though these will probably not get recommended for English Lit class) ---- I also recommend Through Violet Eyes, The Time Traveler's Wife] and [[ASIN:0316068047 The Host: A Novel.

Intriguing
I enjoyed this book. It could be deeply thought provoking or just a great story. I simply liked the "what could happen if..." prospective.

"Offred" tells the tale of many characters and how they find their way. It shows everyone has their unhappiness is life, but there are slices of happiness too.

Set in current times it has the feel of history....and maybe that's what swept me in.

Wonderful read...
I have recommended this book to everyone around me. Though the story was only so-so, the beauty of how it was written made this a must-read.

What are you waiting for? Read it!!!