(Nov 2011) The Handmaid's Tale -- SPOILERS ALLOWED

[Desert_Brat]

Tell us what you think.

[Desert_Brat]

If I had to pinpoint a passage that set the tone of the book, it would be: "...There must have been a chandelier, once. They've removed anything you could tie a rope to ..."

And I can't decide if the "Aunts" remind me of matrons in a women's prison or a female platoon sergeant in the women's barracks.

[Desert_Brat]

I believe this was the first book where I encountered the F-word, by a woman author no less, that didn't carry an adults-only rating. The '80s were still fairly conservative when it came to literature.

[Desert_Brat]

Despite the misguided zealot society, I found Offred's conversation with God to be somewhat poignant.

[Desert_Brat]

Just finished the story. I certainly didn't see that ending coming.

But I do see why this book is a classic for discussion in more leaned circles. It is fraught with symbology and, sadly, somewhat prophetic. The story evokes strong images of similar occurrences throughout history as we know it.