A review by charri
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I had some issues with the writing style, but overall thought this was a decent book. I understand why it's considered a modern classic.
I felt the inclusion of a "historical notes" section - which the author admitted in a BBC interview I listened to was cribbed from 1984 - was a jarring tone shift after the previous chapter, but in considering it as essentially a separate document about the book, or an addendum, I appreciate learning more about the politics and cultural shifts of the time than Offred was able to glean.
That said, it's perfectly readable without the last chapter, and may be more enjoyable without.
That is, if you can stand how Atwood tries to end every paragraph with a poignant one-liner.
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