The Handmaid's Tale is obviously a masterpiece. Every word, sentence, event, and interaction has been so carefully chosen to create an aurora borealis of emotions in my heart. And though there are some waves of pretty light, overall the book is dark with sadness.

Discussing the intersection of female sexuality and totalitarianism, this book is as important to read as other dystopian classics like 1984 and Brave New World. It gives the reader a lot to think about, and Atwood wants us to think and keep thinking and questioning. As far as diversity, transgender and lesbian characters appear (to tragic effect) and at least one canonically brown character exists, but it's unclear what the general treatment of non-whites is. If I were to express any criticism, it's that I was hoping for more details about how race functions in Gilead's society. 

More personally, this book just...made my heart ache. I was so angry that humanity would do this to one another. However, yes, it will make you sad, but it will also keep you warned and alert. Atwood depicts a horrible future, but it's also fuel to the feminist fight and reminds me how important that fight is.