The Handmaid's Tale (1985) by Margaret Atwood is a feminist dystopia novel, set in a fictional place named Gilead. It is oppressive, policed and the men run everything. Due to unknown circumstances, there are only few women left who can reproduce. These women, the Handmaid's are under strict orders and used to keep the population alive, without their consent. We follow the bleak but emotional journey of one such lady named Offred who sees her friends beaten and child taken from her. Everyone in Gilead plays a role and if anyone tries to rebel, they are wiped off the face of the Earth.
A tough, raw novel to read but it opened my eyes to the issues still prevalent in today's society like government rule, patriarchy and sexual rights. Set in the future, Atwood cleverly paints a warning picture to wake us up in hopes that Gilead does not become reality. If you enjoy reading about female empowerment and or just want a cry, this is the next book for you!
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