Book Review: The Testaments by Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood is a Canadian author, poet, and literary critic. She has written numerous books, including “The Handmaid’s Tale,” which has been adapted into a successful TV series. “The Testaments” is a sequel to “The Handmaid’s Tale” and won the 2019 Booker Prize.

Overview

“The Testaments” is set fifteen years after the events of “The Handmaid’s Tale” and is told from the perspectives of three female characters. The novel explores the inner workings of the totalitarian state of Gilead and the resistance movement that seeks to overthrow it. The novel is a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of power, oppression, and the human spirit.

Review

“The Testaments” is a masterful and timely novel that builds on the themes and ideas of its predecessor while also standing on its own as a compelling work of fiction. Atwood’s writing is sharp and incisive, and she crafts a complex and nuanced portrait of a society that is both dystopian and uncomfortably familiar.

One of the strengths of the novel is the character development. The three female narrators are distinct and fully realized, and readers will be invested in their struggles and triumphs. Aunt Lydia, in particular, is a fascinating and complex character, and her backstory adds depth and richness to the world of Gilead.

Another strength of the novel is the pacing and plotting. Atwood keeps the tension high throughout the novel, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers engaged. The novel also does an excellent job of exploring the inner workings of the regime of Gilead and the various factions that are vying for power.

Atwood’s writing is also notable for its use of language and symbolism. The novel is full of rich imagery and powerful metaphors, and Atwood’s prose is at once beautiful and devastating.

Overall, “The Testaments” is a powerful and timely novel that is a worthy successor to “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Atwood’s writing is as sharp and incisive as ever, and her ability to create complex and nuanced characters and worlds is on full display in this book.

*****

About the writer:
Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 40 books, for more than ten years and enjoys volunteering as a Counselor. She is a trainer, publisher, author, and writing mentor; helping others to achieve their dreams.

Check out her book The Caribbean Family

The family is the genesis of all societies. Every culture has its distinct rules by which a family is governed, and the Caribbean family is no exception. Those rules differ within each group; for the Indians, Chinese, and Africans. Making up most of the population in the Caribbean, African families have spawned several sub-units or types; some of which are unique to the African culture. This book explores each family type and their history within the Caribbean.

Available at all online book retailers and Amazon.com