The Handmaid's Tale (Graphic Novel) - Margaret Atwood

Join us Sunday, September 20th for a discussion on The Handmaid's Tale (Graphic Novel) by Margaret Atwood.

Note - we're reading the graphic novel version, not the regular novel. The graphic novel is the one that was banned in Utah, the novel has not been banned (yet). Note, a graphic novel is NOT necessarily "graphic" - it's the story told via comic book style: images and text bubbles.

The Book:

• Title: The Handmaid's Tale - Graphic Novel
• Author: Margaret Atwood
• Description: In Margaret Atwood’s dystopian future, environmental disasters and declining birthrates have led to a Second American Civil War. The result is the rise of the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian regime that enforces rigid social roles and enslaves the few remaining fertile women. Offred is one of these, a Handmaid bound to produce children for one of Gilead’s commanders. Deprived of her husband, her child, her freedom, and even her own name, Offred clings to her memories and her will to survive.
  Provocative, startling, prophetic, The Handmaid’s Tale has long been a global phenomenon. With this beautiful graphic novel adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s modern classic, beautifully realized by artist Renée Nault, the terrifying reality of Gilead has been brought to vivid life like never before.

Why it's Often Banned:

• Sexual Content: Critics and school boards argue that depictions of reproductive servitude and sexual themes are inappropriate for minor readers.
• Graphic Novel Accessibility: Challengers have specifically targeted the graphic novel adaptation (illustrated by Renée Nault) because its visual format makes mature themes, nudity, and violence more immediate and accessible to younger audiences.
• Profanity and Tone: Opponents cite vulgarity, dark subject matter, and religious or political critiques as unsuitable for school curricula.

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Event Details

• When: Sunday, September 20th from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Where: Wasatch Theater Company at the Gateway Mall (77 S Rio Grande St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101)
• What to Bring: Please bring a food item to share and your own drink of choice (alcohol is allowed!).
• Get Connected: Click here to join us on GroupMe to vote on future books and chat with fellow members.

Note: Last month we had nearly 30 people RSVP and we had 5 show up. This makes it incredibly difficult to plan for food. If you RSVP, please plan on showing up. You don't have to have finished or even read the book - we don't judge. :)
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* Reminder: This is a non-political, respectful space where all viewpoints are welcome. Our discussion stays focused on the book and the ideas it raises. We won’t always agree, and that’s okay! Different perspectives make for great conversation. See you there!