The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

TITLE:  The Handmaid's Tale

AUTHOR:  Atwood, Margaret
GENRE:  Dystopian Fiction

DATES READ:  7/24/2017 - 8/17/2017

MY RATING:  2/5

This is a much desired book discussion book at book club, especially with the new Hulu series.

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The dystopian future is found in the Republic of Gilead. It is an age where the instance of birth is more rare. And thus Commander's and their wives must make use a Handmaid (one who is mostly valued based on the viability of her ovaries). The story of a Handmaid, Offred, who can remember the years before Gilead. Back when she had a husband, children, a job, a life of her own...

I tried to like this book. I tried to like it because it's timely and I am a feminist. So, I should like this book... I feel like a bad feminist. I just cannot bring myself to give this book a good review.

I don't think it was the subject matter. I think it was the way it was written. I felt that it dragged on and on. I'm not sure if that was supposed to be stylistic. But it was just boring to me. The plot was promising but I felt it took too long to get to the point.

I listened to it on audiobook and I am so glad that I did. The whole concept of Gilead wasn't far-fetched for me. That was the scariest part. There wasn't a lot of shock value because it feels like something that could actually happen. 

I also didn't connect with Offred. And I always have trouble when I feel no connection with Offred. Not even a negative connection. Just nothing. I did like the narrator, Claire Danes. She was wonderful! I also heard that the punctuation in the book was odd, and that would have been very difficult for my focus. So, yay for audiobooks! 😊

Will read and write soon!

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Joyland by Stephen King

TITLE:  Joyland

AUTHOR:  King, Stephen
GENRE:  Mystery/Horror

DATES READ:  7/30/2017 - 8/7/2017

MY RATING:  4/5

July pick for Stephen King Book Club!

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The year is 1973. Devin Jones is college student who goes to work as a carny for a small amusement park in North Carolina. His life changes as he investigates a horrible fun house murder, summer love, and the fate of a dying boy. 

I loved this book! It was a quick no-nonsense murder mystery with charming characters, and a creepy yet equally whimsical setting. It did not read like a typical Stephen King book.

I enjoyed Devin's character, and I loved how he because part of Joyland. The theme park and the language of the carnies was quirky and fun, yet easy to pick up on. You started to feel like you were part of it.

The murder mystery was a classic whodunit and the addition of a haunted ride was just too delicious. I even think those that say they 'don't like' Stephen King would love this read. Would recommend to anyone/everyone. 

Will read and write soon!

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