The Current Margaret Atwood tells her own story
Dec 26, 2025
Renowned Canadian author Margaret Atwood, known for her iconic work The Handmaid's Tale, engages in a captivating discussion about her new memoir, Book of Lives. She shares her childhood experiences in both the woods and the city, revealing how they shaped her creativity. Atwood reflects on societal changes and real-life inspirations behind her characters, as well as the striking relevance of The Handmaid's Tale in today's political climate. Plus, an impromptu palm reading adds a whimsical touch to this insightful conversation.
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Book Signing Among Socks And Underwear
- Her first professional book signing took place in the men's sock and underwear department of Hudson's Bay Company in Edmonton.
- Customers avoided her table and the setting highlighted the awkwardness of early promotion efforts.
Meeting Graham At A Literary Prize Event
- Atwood met Graham Gibson at a literary event they created for Milton Acorn and later read his palm, which impressed him.
- Their relationship began amid a lively, expanding literary community in 1969.
Impromptu Palm Reading On Stage
- Margaret Atwood performs an impromptu palm reading for Matt Galloway, using Renaissance palm-reading tied to astrology.
- She gives lighthearted, personal observations about character and longevity during the reading.