Book Challenge Updates

I'm currently participating in two book challenges. I'll start with the July Book Blowout!

The Enchantress of Florence by Salman Rushdie
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Snuff by Chuck Palahniuk
The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory (only counts for 1/2, since I started in March)
Debbie Harry Sings in French by Meagan Brothers
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

So, now we're up to 5 1/2 books for the month of July.

I read The Handmaid's Tale as part of the New Classics Challenge.

Set in the future, The Handmaid's Tale is the story of the republic of Gilead, as told by the handmaid, Offred. Gilead is what used to be the United States, before taken over by people whose idea of utopia is that people dress in different clothes to show who they are, commanders have handmaid's to procreate with, and people are put on the Wall when they are salvaged for their beliefs.

Offred tells her story of the time before Gilead, her time in her commander's house, her unusual relationship with him, and her memories of her loved ones. It was very scary to think this is something that could happen. Not everyone's idea of utopia is the same, and I can't fathom being told to live by someone else's rules.

I recommend this book to everyone - it was a great read, and Atwood is at her best in writing this book.