Margaret Atwood narrates witty memoir spanning her life and literary career
Margaret Atwood, the author of The Handmaid's Tale, has published her memoir, Book of Lives, presented as an audiobook read by Atwood herself at age 86. Though initially resistant to writing a memoir, Atwood has embraced the project, delivering a witty and engaging narration that showcases her characteristic insight. The work offers reflections from one of literature's most celebrated contemporary figures on her life, relationships and a literary career spanning over 50 books.
Subtitled "A Memoir of Sorts" and running for 25 hours and 36 minutes, the work is a showcase for Atwood's wisdom and dry humour. The review highlights her thoughtful reflections on her loves and losses, with particular attention to The Handmaid's Tale (1986), whilst noting how her personality shines through the narration, making it an engaging listen despite her initial reservations about the project's appeal.
- Margaret Atwood's memoir audiobook, read by the 86-year-old author herself, showcases her wit.
- Book of Lives spans 25+ hours covering her loves, losses and 50+ books written.
- Atwood initially resisted writing a memoir but offers dryly funny reflections on her life.
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Margaret Atwood is a Canadian author best known for her 1986 novel The Handmaid's Tale, which became a global bestseller and has been translated into numerous languages. Over a career spanning more than five decades, she has written over 50 books across poetry, novels and essays, making her a prolific contemporary writer.
A memoir is a personal account in which an author reflects on their own life, experiences and relationships. Atwood has presented her memoir as an audiobook that she narrates herself, allowing readers to hear directly from the author as she discusses her life and work.
For readers interested in The Handmaid's Tale or Atwood's other works, a memoir offers personal insight into the author behind the writing. Such accounts can illuminate how an author's life experiences shape their creative work and thinking.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Book of Lives by Margaret Atwood audiobook review – a dryly funny memoir”.