The Handmaid’s Tale

Gr 10 Up–This award-winning novel is an account of Offred’s life in an oppressive society. It is set in the futuristic world of Gilead, where fertile women are a scarce resource due to infertility caused by past issues, such as pollution. The Commanders, high-ranking, wealthy public officials, have designed the Republic of Gilead to ensure they have access to fertile women, whom they have given the title of Handmaids. Offred is assigned to one of these Commanders and must grapple with memories of her past life and family and figure out how to survive in the new world. Through seeing an extreme example of what happens when everyone goes along with those in power, this book can help readers understand the importance of following what they believe is right. Atwood writes about quintessential themes of gender, religion, society, identity, and so much more that are ripe for discussion. The topics referenced are deep and would benefit from proper scaffolding.