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About This Book
The Handmaid's Tale: A Novel
ISBN: 9780385490818
Published: March 16, 1998, by Vintage
Author: Margaret Atwood
About the Book:
"The Handmaid's Tale" is a dystopian novel that has become an instant classic and a cultural phenomenon. Written by Margaret Atwood, this book is set in the totalitarian society of Gilead, where women's bodies are controlled by a patriarchal regime. The story follows the life of Offred, a Handmaid who is forced into reproductive servitude, and her struggles to maintain her identity and humanity in a world where she is nothing more than a vessel for reproduction.
Who Uses It?
Primarily, this book is used by students and educators in literature and women's studies courses at the high school and college levels. It is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the themes of feminism, oppression, and resistance. The book's thought-provoking content makes it a favorite among book clubs and reading groups.
History and Editions:
First published in 1985, "The Handmaid's Tale" has been a staple of feminist literature for decades. The 1998 edition, published by Vintage, is one of the most widely available versions. This edition includes detailed notes on the historical context that inspired Atwood's writing, making it easier for readers to understand the parallels between the fictional world of Gilead and our own society.
Author and Other Works:
Margaret Atwood is a renowned Canadian author known for her powerful and thought-provoking works. Some of her notable books include "Oryx and Crake," "The Blind Assassin," and "The Testaments," which is a sequel to "The Handmaid's Tale." Atwood's writing style is characterized by her ability to blend historical fiction with speculative elements, creating stories that are both hauntingly realistic and eerily prescient.
Key Features:
- Dystopian Fiction: The book is a masterful example of dystopian fiction, exploring themes of oppression, resistance, and survival in a totalitarian society.
- Feminist Themes: It delves deeply into feminist issues, highlighting the struggles of women in a patriarchal world.
- Historical Context: The novel provides a rich historical context, drawing parallels between past and present societal issues.
- Cultural Phenomenon: It has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring numerous adaptations including a critically acclaimed Hulu series.
Detailed Information
ISBNs and Formats:
- Paperback: ISBN-13: 9780385490818
- Hardcover: ISBN-13: 9780385490825 (Published October 17, 2006)
- Prebound: ISBN-13: 9780385490832 (Published March 16, 1998)
- Compact Disc: ISBN-13: 9780385490849 (Published October 28, 2014)
- MP3 CD: ISBN-13: 9780385490856 (Published July 22, 2014)
Publication Details:
- Publisher: Vintage
- Publication Date: March 16, 1998
- Pages: 336
- Language: English
Other Editions and Formats:
- Large Print Edition: Published November 21, 2023 (ISBN-13: 9781984802348)
Related ISBNs:
- 0385490823 (Hardcover)
- 0385490831 (Prebound)
- 0385490849 (Compact Disc)
- 0385490856 (MP3 CD)
- 1984802348 (Large Print Edition)
This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for "The Handmaid's Tale," making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.
