Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, contrary to popular belief, is not a futuristic novel, but rather inspired by real-world events in the early 1980s in Iran, Romania, and the United States. The story follows the tales of Abrahamian religions, particularly the story of Jacob and his multiple wives and maids, such as Rachel. Although Atwood is hesitant to claim that the book criticizes religion, it is difficult to interpret it otherwise (Atwood suggests it is more about the abuse of power). The book powerfully depicts the horror of totalitarian theonomic states, such as those in Iran and Afghanistan, but did not teach me much beyond what I already know about such states. Additionally, the lack of strong female characters was disappointing, with only Moira having the potential for such a role but ultimately accepting her predetermined role in the religious society. The mother of Offred (June), who could have been a role model for current generations of female activists, is unfortunately ignored. The remaining female characters are portrayed as desperate personalities who have accepted their roles in one way or another. Most depressingly, Offred requires the aid of her pimp friend, Nick, to escape her unfortunate situation. The book is not a feminist work, but it is informative in understanding the consequences of a totalitarian theonomic state.