The Testaments: A Novel (The Handmaid's Tale)

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • WINNER OF THE BOOKER PRIZE • A modern masterpiece that "reminds us of the power of truth in the face of evil” (People)—and can be read on its own or as a sequel to Margaret Atwood’s classic, The Handmaid’s Tale.
“Atwood’s powers are on full display” (Los Angeles Times) in this deeply compelling Booker Prize-winning novel, now updated with additional content that explores the historical sources, ideas, and material that inspired Atwood.
More than fifteen years after the events of The Handmaid's Tale, the theocratic regime of the Republic of Gilead maintains its grip on power, but there are signs it is beginning to rot from within. At this crucial moment, the lives of three radically different women converge, with potentially explosive results.
Two have grown up as part of the first generation to come of age in the new order. The testimonies of these two young women are joined by a third: Aunt Lydia. Her complex past and uncertain future unfold in surprising and pivotal ways.
With The Testaments, Margaret Atwood opens up the innermost workings of Gilead, as each woman is forced to come to terms with who she is, and how far she will go for what she believes.
“Atwood’s powers are on full display” (Los Angeles Times) in this deeply compelling Booker Prize-winning novel, now updated with additional content that explores the historical sources, ideas, and material that inspired Atwood.
More than fifteen years after the events of The Handmaid's Tale, the theocratic regime of the Republic of Gilead maintains its grip on power, but there are signs it is beginning to rot from within. At this crucial moment, the lives of three radically different women converge, with potentially explosive results.
Two have grown up as part of the first generation to come of age in the new order. The testimonies of these two young women are joined by a third: Aunt Lydia. Her complex past and uncertain future unfold in surprising and pivotal ways.
With The Testaments, Margaret Atwood opens up the innermost workings of Gilead, as each woman is forced to come to terms with who she is, and how far she will go for what she believes.
BUY THE BOOK
Community Reviews
Ahhh, the sequel that everyone needs. I started by watching The Handmaids Tale on TV, and then read the book while the last season was airing. Luckily I was able to dive into this book immediately after. Of course I wanted to know what happened with Agnes and Baby Nicole...I just didn't know I needed the stories of the others as well. Let's hope that real life doesn't mimic this tragic story. #audiobook
I've tried to read The Handmaid's Tale multiple times but just couldn't, so I was not thrilled when my club picked this one. I was pleasantly surprised! Still didn't *love* it, but I did enjoy the bada$$ women's perspective on the situation.
This book was not bad, but it definitely did not live up to The Handmaid's Tale. It may have been fine on its own but it just felt so disconnected as a sequel.
this book was so interesting. i really liked getting 3 different pov’s and feel that it added so much to the storyline and the narrative. i liked reading about aunt lydia’s growth.
Such a powerful read.
The Testaments Ratings:
Mikaela: 3, drags on a bit more
Amanda: 3.5, Dragged on
Enely: 5, great ending
Mayela: 3.5
Nerea: 4, tough read, interesting
Ashley: 4, endings are appreciated, not as thought provoking but great
Victoria: 5
See why thousands of readers are using Bookclubs to stay connected.