review:
This book is unusual because it focuses on the rare topic of female friendships and dynamics - and largely does not trivialise their importance in the story by including men. At the same time, it isn't fantasy but a keen observation of childhood and what social relationships do to a child's mind and how it lasts much much longer than we think without realising what and why we do what we do. Atwood is a master craftsmen - from science fiction to dystopian societies - she has a keen grasp on what it means to be a part of society. And in this case, the reflections are upon what one does and experiences in the 'formative years' and its visceral impact into the adulthood lives. Good read, though a tad depressing because of the realities of the story and experience.,