Should I finish reading "The Handmaid's Tale"?

Question

I've gotten about a hundred pages into Margaret Atwood's book but the story is really dragging for me. Do you think it is worth continuing on or should I quit now instead of wasting more time with it? I've heard really good reviews about this book but I just can't seem to really get into it.

Answer 1

If you don't like it, don't read it. A hundred pages is definitely enough for you to make a decision. If you are reading it for pleasure, you ought to enjoy it. If quitting bothers you, try reading it again in a year or two. Personally, I don't think that the book itself is that wonderful, regardless of what the critics say about it. There are many works of literature more worthwhile, in my opinion.
I don't know anything about the film version, but sometimes seeing the film of a book can help inspire you to read it, or not to. Usually, I wouldn't recommend this, but since it's not for a class, I don't see any problem with it.

Answer 2

I loved "The Handmaid's Tale," but then, I am a huge Atwood fan and have been for decades. She is a marvelous writer. I especially admire her ability to write novels like "THT" that seem, on their surface, to be fantastic somehow, but are chillingly close to the truth. That's certainly true of her novel, "Oryx and Crake." Did you know that "The Handmaid's Tale" was made into a movie? It was a brilliant adaptation of the novel. I'd recommend finishing the book and then treat yourself to renting and watching the movie. Have fun!

Answer 3

If you don't like it after around a hundred pages then the chances are this isn't the book for you. Yes, it might have good reviews but that doesn't change the fact that you're just not getting into it and forcing yourself will only lead to you enjoying it even less.

Answer 4

I read the book about 15 years ago. I remember that it went a little slowly for me too. However, the end certainly justifies getting through the book.

I think the book was also made into a movie, so if you just can't get through it, at least watch the movie.

Answer 5

Personally, I think it's a wonderful book. That being said, not everyone is going to like it. I think it is worth the time, but if you really aren't enjoying it, then stop. If you read something just because other people say so and you don't actually like it, then it's just a waste of your time. You can spend it reading something else you will enjoy more. However, if you like it, but just feel its a little slow, give it a few more chapters to see if you think its something you might like to finish.

Answer 6

The Handmaid's Tale is one of my favourite books, I found it really easy to read. Keep at it, seriously, especially as the ending is so powerful!

Answer 7

ok, I observed this and concept AMERICAN GODS. i'm in precisely the same subject as you. i began American Gods in... early January, late December and that i purely finished it. I agree, a good e book, yet WTF. heavily, books like this make me situation for Neil Gaiman... what could be occurring in that mans head to jot down something like that. I additionally purely finished analyzing a a hundred seventy five website article on companion and young infants politics and counter insurgency. and that i even have unquestionably no concept what any of it stated. Does that count selection?

Answer 8

My advice-- put it aside. I often start a book and find it slow or unappealing but then months later get an urge to give it another chance.

Answer 9

By all means perservere to the end. The book has many layers of meaning and you may be surprised by how the ending plays on your mind.

Answer 10

I loved the book, but if it isn't your style, it isn't your style. I usually make myself finish classics and modern classics so that when the book comes up in conversation I can actually talk about it (or bash it) with full knowledge. :)