did the handmaid’s tale NEED a sequel??? ‘the testaments’ reviewed by an english lit student

[@jack_edwards]

sorry it's long - here's some time stamps in case you want to skip: intro - 0:00 the handmaid's tale analysis - 0:59 why i don't think it needed a sequel - 2:22 the tv series - 4:11 predictions for the testaments - 5:29 analysis of the testaments - 6:32 onwards

[@uaimen3990]

hey Jack! Please can you make a video on how to do well studying The Handmaid's Tail for a-level??

[@uaimen3990]

and maybe how to analyse it critically etc

[@beccajames9203]

I would love to watch more videos of you reviewing books that you're passionate about (passionately love or hate), or even books you're studying at uni 😊

[@jack_edwards]

thank you so much!!

[@isabellanesheiwat8]

"We are literally living in a dystopia." *2020 laughs maniacally in the distance*

[@jieunsong6557]

please make a video of you talking about your favorite books!!!!!! I like your reviews on the book

[@jack_edwards]

i definitely will - thank you!!

[@thinkfeelsolve]

@@jack_edwards WAITING!!!! ^_^

[@valerieysabel123]

This does NOT compare to all the booktube I watched in secondary school. The way you analyze everything is so interesting! I need a full review of the handmaiden’s tale as well, just about every book you read tbf! This makes me regret not studying literature 😂

[@nikidrr]

I watch a lot of booktubers as I am very (VERY) interested in literature and hearing the different opinions on stories from people from different backgrounds. However, I think this was one of the best reviews of a book on youtube I have ever watched. I feel like I simultaneously heard your opinion and a kind of recommendation that is solely based on information I can use to build my own interest in the book without knowing too much of the plot itself - So thank you. I have read the Handmaid's Tale about two years ago and I loved it. It made me think and reconsider what I know and let happen. I wasn't really sure about whether to read the sequel or not either, I'm still not entirely sure but your video definitely helped. Could you maybe make more videos about some of the books you have read for your degree that stood out to you? I would really appreciate to hear your opinion on some of the themes in said books. Great video as always

[@MsRiverdee]

Niki Dre my thoughts exactly, come on Jack please do more video reviews on some of the best books you have read xx

[@jack_edwards]

this just made my YEAR - thank you so so so much for this lovely comment!! it's always a bit terrifying trying something new so publicly but i really appreciate how kind this message is. I'll definitely try to make more videos about books once I get back to uni in October!! :)

[@nikidrr]

@@AminTheMystic The interesting part of life is how everybody is different and likes different things. To me this was a very enjoyable and interesting video that gave me all the information about the book I initially wanted. I feel like I have very similar views on things to Jack and so value his opinion more than I would others when it comes to deciding what I want to read. Obviously there are professional reviewers who are incredibly talented and helpful. I would never ever want to diminish that. However, liking the structure, content and ideas in a video and then telling the maker of that video about does not make me an arselicker. I like to compliment people on things I know they have worked for, especially if it is something new for them. I am a believer in the idea that if you can make someone even the tiniest bit happier by stating the (or your subjective) truth, then you should do it. It's not like "arselicking" would get me anywhere in this situation and the idea that it would is straight up ridiculous.

[@AminTheMystic]

@@nikidrr Complete BS. You cannot on one hand claim you are really into BookTube and then come to this video to claim that this was the best video ever. Especially when he is soft-pedalling his review. AND - this is important- he doesn't really know how to review a book.

[@nikitajain1174]

@@AminTheMystic First of all, the original commenter said 'one of the best' so your statement is inaccurate. Secondly, there is no one way to review a book - they're written for different purposes, and focus on different aspects of storytelling. There's a reason why no single book is universally lauded as the 'best ever', because then it would score 10/10 in every category of your ideal review. Also, Jack's doing this to share his passion for literature! It's not like he's getting paid for it. Your accusation that he is not as well read as other reviewers is odd, as I'm not sure how an English Literature student could possibly rank low on that list. Personally, I appreciate a review where the reviewer expresses their opinion while providing credible and thoughtful analysis. If that's not your cup of tea, fine - but there's no need to be so negative about it.

[@becky7866]

jack: i've finished my second year of uni us: yeah sounds about right jack: so now i'm a third year student us: you're a what now

[@kulthumohamed]

omg a third year student now. old man tings

[@jack_edwards]

blows my mind just saying that out loud

[@hollierose1768]

Can I just say, I’ve learnt more about the Handmaid’s Tale from you in this video than I have the whole of my first year of A Level English. Thank you

[@jack_edwards]

hahahahahaa AQA are quaking

[@hollierose1768]

Jack Edwards genuinely tho, anymore thoughts on the Handmaids Tale, please let us know because I need all of the help I can get

[@nelle4419]

The book was incredible I completely agree! However, I have also watched the TV series and although it’s true they perhaps give a slightly different feel when including her name, I honestly think the series is still very powerful and thought provoking. I would Deffinetly recommend watching it for an experience in itself even if you may have to separate it from the book in your mind when doing so. (But it’s so so so good!)

[@abenaa2976]

okay i didn’t know i needed jack reviewing books but my guy..... i just loved listening to him just talking about the handmaids tale so excitedly! it brings me joy to see him talking about shit he loves y’know

[@starryxblue]

You had no reason to be nervous Jack, this was wonderful. Honestly my new favourite video of yours and a series I would love to watch more of!

[@morganbruce9087]

Despite this being different from your normal content, I really enjoyed the analysis and breakdown of both the handmaid's tale and the testaments. I was really enjoy hearing someone talk passionately about something they're interested in so I really enjoyed this especially as it's clear that you have a great amount of knowledge in English lit.

[@hailieelgadimifsud]

About to start the first book ... ROAD TO A LEVELS

[@beccabrett648]

hailie mifsud SAME

[@starlord6433]

hailie mifsud are you Maltese ?

[@sakshi2471997]

Jack Edwards being a booktuber? That's a dream come true

[@lottiebroadcasts8166]

Literally just finished this book. I work in a book shop. One of the things I DIDNT like about this book was the assumption that you would know who Nicole was - a character created for the TV show. However, I did love the sisterhood created in the book, how the Aunt's were like Nuns, how women were safe and looking out for each other. I found Aunt Lydia's back story interesting and why she became who she is fascinating. It's like when you read about other totalitarian regimes people have a choice of "join us or die". Aunt Lydia didn't want death, so she chose to join. I always found her story the most interesting and her character development in the show has been interesting too, especially given that Margaret is executive producer. I have a degree in English Literature as well and spend a lot of time discussing the Handmaid's Tale and people who come into the store.... It has different implications as a woman and how I feel about it at different ages, this book just makes me feel more and more like Gilead is a regime that is impossible, yet I'd want to do everything in my power to protect other women, no matter the consequences - like Aunt Lydia

[@tuanhnguyen1113]

I studied The Handmaid's Tale last year for my AS Level English Lit, and I love & completely agree with your review! Everything you said about The Handmaid's Tale was exactly how I analysed the book. Margaret Atwood is literally a genius.

[@franciscobaranda1157]

Come through English literature student! (From an English lit student as well, we rock!) I too love Atwood so I’m excited to see what the testaments bring to the table

[@sophiem3375]

You're honestly so eloquent, I wish I could articulate my ideas as well as you!! It's so obvious how much you love literature and how hard you work to really understand it. More of these would be amazing xxxx

[@caitlin4873]

this is honestly one of my favourite videos you've done

[@nim_19]

I didn’t think I’d watch this through but I absolutely loved this video! You explain things so clearly☺️

[@jack_edwards]

I really appreciate that - thank you!!

[@libbystephenson5735]

absolutely love this video !!! would love to see some more literature/ bookish videos, maybe a video of your all time faves or faves from certain time periods/ genres

[@MimiMariposaDancer]

I was so happy to hear someone eco some of my own thoughts! I'm almost finished with the book so I greatly appreciate no spoilers. However, I just finished the Handmaids Tale for the first time and went right into the Testaments. The change of tone was shocking and while I agree that the 2nd one is a good read and I can't wait to get back to it, I miss the eeriness of the 1st. It seems almost like fan fiction compared to the 1st! Loved your video and would love to see more book reviews!

[@braedie2393]

Loved this- would love to see more book reviews on your channel!! Was so great to hear your perspective, especially since you've studied the handmaid's tale so closely

[@lenaschroder7774]

Wow, this was a great review! I feel like you know what you are talking about, your passion for literature came through for sure and I'd love to see more of them. This video really made me want to read RIGHT NOW :) so keep up the great work!

[@sparkyyyyxoxo]

Please do some more book reviews! Honestly, it’s so helpful to hear opinions! I have to say I’ve struggled to like The Handmaid’ s Tale, but your perspective has really helped me look at it differently :)

[@joss_x9153]

as a fellow english lit student (starting monday) i LOVED this. your analysis of the handmaids tale was so interesting and I loved hearing the review from a analytical point of view. I’d love to see a video on how you prepare for English Lit exams at university level. how you read books for uni, how you research context, how you study throughout the year etc etc. i understand it’s quite a niche video but i think it would be really useful

[@camcam794]

A reviewer mentioned a diary that was found during the French Revolution. The girl who wrote it spoke about piano lessons, living her life as normal, like nothing drastic is happening. Agnes, a commander’s daughter, is living that in the beginning. This is her normal life. She grew up there, and doesn’t really see the madness around her. I think if people where to look back at us wasting resources, and violating women’s rights they would say “HOLY SHIT! How could they stand by and do nothing!? How could they not see this coming!?”

[@maziekate]

I was skeptical about the TV show too, but all of the changes they make I feel like were so so necessary. Ofglen’s story is the most developed to me, and I’m probably the most attached to her than any character. And the Canada/refugee dynamic they introduce is fascinating to watch.

[@nns7353]

Could you please do more book review vids because the way you analyse them is intriguing and I need more books to read x

[@prat5993]

PLEASE do this more often. I'm kinda craving for more booktube videos from you. This is what I need!

[@lottiehussey632]

This is possibly my favourite video of yours Jack (and that’s saying a lot bc I loveee your videos!!) I love how in depth yet clear you are in your explanations and analysis! I also read The Handmaid’s Tale at A Level and it’s one of my favourite books, so I am both excited and apprehensive to read it...

[@kapugaming9361]

The video can be 50 minutes and i will still watch it without skipping a second because it's Jack Goddamn Edwards's video😊

[@chandan9388]

Omg jack as a fellow literature student i still really think you should watch the tv series!!!! I personally think it’s incredible and at times very interesting to compare to the book but also how they develop the plot beyond the text is so nice in my opinion as opposed to ruining the book!!!!! :)

[@humayrabegum1998]

The handmaid’s tail did not need a sequel. What made the original so good is that you don’t know ANYTHING, like Offred... adfhjdagkl I could go off but yeh

[@jack_edwards]

I agree!!!

[@maishamaryam]

trust jack edwards to explain the handmaid's tale in a way that makes me like it (lol yes i dislike the book but i also understand why it's likeable)

[@kulthumohamed]

love that i’m supposed to be reading and annotating a text for history myself yet here i am watching you instead i cba

[@mayjeganmogan4514]

it was so unputdownable, but felt so YA. like divergent, hunger games kinda ting and takes away from the simplicity and beautiful but complex themes and language in handmaid's tale. I think there's little point to actually comparing the two though because of course you're gonna handmaid's tale finna flex on testaments😂

[@alph1526]

This was so interesting!! You should have a podcast where you talk and review the books you read! I would so listen to that and the content would maybe be easier to get out than on your youtube channel

[@emmap9407]

If you ever have time a video on the handmaids tale would be SO APPRECIATED!! you said so many things that I’ve never heard before about it.

[@vjpublisher]

Jack, please do more of these one-book reviews, we miss the in-depth approach.

[@editsss3348]

I’ve read the book also for a level, and similarly, it’s now my favourite book. I watched the series after I finished my a levels and it’s honestly my favourite series that I’ve ever watched too. The first series is the only series based on the book, it’s maybe the first time that I believe that the later seasons are just as good as the original, based on the book. Although June’s name is revealed, I believe that her identity being her power is still relevant and is highlighted in other means throughout the series..... watch it!

[@GabriellaFitzGerald]

Really enjoyed the video - such a good analysis! Haven’t read either book, definitely interested in doing so, they just seem rather dark and idk if I’ll be able to appreciate that so much right now :/

[@catalinaurzua8910]

One of the best reviews I’ve ever watched

[@Steph163.]

Please give the TV show a go. It's so fantastic. Going to be finding a copy of the book to read as you've inspired me to do so 😊. The writers have taken it so such a good place 😁

[@madeleinevickers8471]

Loved this analytical review!! It was very passionate and honest which is always refreshing. Loved the first book which I also studied for my A Level...was also hoping for some more unpredictable twists but still a good read! Would love to see more videos like this!

[@chiaramadonna1088]

Really loved this video! Enjoy hearing your analyses and thoughts - especially when it's about big hits like The Handmaid's Tale series & I can follow

[@millyfiore7815]

finally someone i trust reviewing this book!! thank u jesus

[@hollylogue2084]

You know you've made it when you feature on the University core reading for my writing criticism module. Great video!!!

[@TheHollyChronicle]

This was such a great review! I’m going to be studying a handmaids tale next year

[@eimercrowley8463]

I am literally taking notes from your intro on THT for my English Leaving Cert

[@ameliajenkins89]

Just finished a big fat essay on THT and I loved studying it in-depth! Its also one of my favourite books of all time and it got me into reading again which is great. I also watched the TV show which is great on its own, but its more of a show 'based on the characters of THT' instead of a direct replica. To watch and really enjoy the show I had to detach myself from the book and enjoy it as a separate piece of work instead. Obviously this video was filmed nearly 2 years ago so you may have already watched it but if you haven't I 100% would recommend it, especially the later seasons!!!

[@joan98610]

you should do more reviews of books you read, your analysis has so much quality!

[@maisolomon7494]

LOVED LOVED LOVED THIS REVIEW!!!

[@aimeesmiles9400]

Random fun fact: I go to the University of Toronto- where Margaret Atwood studied!! Students have spotted her in cafes and such, since she lives in Toronto :)

[@edwarburton]

I need you talking about hand maids tale more - doing a levels now and you’re better than my teacher no joke

[@exitmusicfrafilm]

omg as a fellow lit major this was such a good video and i really liked that you went into a decent amount of depth analysing the book!! it's just so refreshing amidst a lot of the other booktube i watch lmfao if you ever wanna make other videos like this pls do !!

[@IsabellaBoyne]

I loved this analysis/overall review - I would love to see you review more books or give recommendations for your favourite books like a top ten books video!

[@SHLKMR]

One of your best videos! I LOVEDDDDD your review and agree with your points so much. Dystopian literature is one of my favourite genres of literature and something I want to incorporate in my English Lit degree. I laughed way too hard at "handmaid fail". You gooooo

[@nazihaali2177]

i would love for you to make a video on the handmaids tale - analysis and language techniques - it’s my coursework text for english and i’m loving it x

[@zaratmuraina999]

Okay jack I’m using this whole video for my a levels next year

[@franzenjonas]

You NEED to watch the tv show, It really captures what works in the book and translates into a new format. For me, it's one of the best shows on tv in a long time!

[@beccagrace3594]

I’m so happy you’ve made this! I’ve been waiting for your opinion before reading. As I know you loved the first one.

[@epicXzelda64]

I’ve just finished reading the handmaids tale. I really appreciate all the praise you give it because I feel the same way. Thank you for this video, one of the things I enjoyed most about the book was the writing style, so I don’t think I’ll be tuning in to this sequel😊

[@orionparker2768]

i agree that the young characters were written kind of blandly and i didn't care too much about them, but i found aunt lydia's story so compelling that it almost completely made up for it (4 out of 5 stars for me). getting into the mentality and psychology of someone who aligns with the regime who is actively oppressing her; trying to blunt the damage the regime does in tiny ways; it doesn't redeem her, she's still a terrible abusive person, but she finally gets the moment to Do The Right Thing after decades of putting her own safety above all else, and she does it. i think it's really compelling and interesting, aside from being the least dialogue heavy portions of the book.

[@ludovicacostanzajanata893]

'please, change my mind' I wish I could, I totally agree with everything you say in this video

[@tobe4real]

This was such a great review! I’m about to read it so I’ll have my thoughts on it soon. I also love dystopias too and would love to hear you do reviews on books you’re passionate about 😊

[@swati_is_a_penguin2159]

please make more videos about books- as a future English lit student its so interesting!!!!!!

[@rubyhall1592]

im literally now about to start studying The Handmaids Tale in my A level class ! Im so excited and this video really helped with the original novel x

[@balulool12]

It’s good the way to revise English is making a google doc or a word doc of key quotes and short analysis for key quotes in key chapters

[@harriswest6924]

(SPOILERS) I really enjoyed the fact that in the first book Aunt Lydia was such a complex character. The wives force other woman into a horrendous and subservient life as there is a gain for them; a baby. Aunt Lydia was so interesting in this respect as it was hard to understand why a woman could force and build this lifestyle for other woman when there was no personal gain. Was it a true belief of the course? Was it a threat of violence? It was incredibly open-ended and made the character even more despicable. I think rebranding her as 'a good guy' in the Testaments was almost sad to read as I personally felt it took away that complexity from her character. I really enjoyed your review and would love to see more of these videos! :)

[@rootgroves3470]

i love this!! please do more book reviews, i'm a science student but i LOVE literature and the way you talk about it is so captivating and interesting. i know you were worried on Twitter about the views on this, but i would be here every single time you wanted to do a book review x

[@visitingstatue171]

*i actually LOVED this video, and i haven't even read either books* (i will soon though!)

[@sophiedove]

i would love to see more videos like this about specific novels! x

[@ellenmccarthy9168]

I had a “Dystopia” paper for my English lit a-level and I loved it 👌 Just finished the testaments, it was good but the handmaid’s tale is superior.

[@fedelikeslego]

I'm going to go against the grain but I LOVE the tv show, it's my favourite show ever, they did an amazing job and... I really can't finish the book... I started it many times but I hate that there's so many description... I really can't finish it

[@LeinaVance]

It is very DESCRIPTIVE!

[@beckyherrett3508]

Really interesting, it was nice to see a more analytical video! I haven't read The Testaments yet (not sure if I will) but I know when I've read more books by Margaret Atwood, I've found that I don't particularly like her writing style in the more recent ones. All of her older ones that I've read are amazing though (Alias Grace, The Blind Assassin and Cat's Eye are especially FANTASTIC)!

[@louise_411]

Great video Jack wow I'm studying The Handmaid's Tale for my Leaving Cert this year and really enjoyed your perspective on it thank you very helpful 🌼

[@anodien1983]

But you must watch the TV show!!! I found the scene where she actually says her name quite powerful!

[@bambosh5639]

I just read The Testaments recently! I had no idea you reviewed it until I looked it up--I was also sad that the style Atwood had in the Handmaid's Tale was lost on this one. It does seem very made-for-TV in construction, lol. And you have a point that it would have been interesting to get the perspective of one of the real true believers of Gilead... when all the viewpoint characters are rebels, it makes the treatment of totalitarianism feel a bit more shallow. I actually think you were a lot nicer about the book than I would have been! The analysis is great!

[@lauradavies4359]

You should definitely do more videos like this!

[@roseways]

okay I reallyy need a video about your fav books bc by the look of your bookshelf and how much I love handmaid's (& dystopias in general) we have a similar taste! need some recommendations please!! x

[@prettyprinkoo09]

As a woman, I know emotional rebellion is mostly our tool. That aligns well, boils up, and boiling internal fire results in the building up of hope that we can share with others. But...a big but here...I think physical rebellion is always necessary at some point to feel complete. If someone is striking and it's increasing my anger, in the end, I will have my strength of body to rebel back. It will be fueled by the emotional turbulence, I'm sure. So, I somehow think, I wanted the take that The Testament had. You're great Jack although, you sparked my interest in this book and to some extent, following Women's fiction as a part of it. I can only say all these because of the foundation laid by your idea.

[@imogentait5744]

Ok I wish this video was made two months ago when I was writing my essayy!!! You’ve said many smart thingsss

[@holly9598]

Im currently in the car on my way to university while watching this. Exciting

[@shymike]

Holly you should really concentrate on the driving

[@aurorahutchinson9823]

@@shymike i dont think they where drinving the car

[@amywebster9423]

Love this video. Just wanted to mention that the first series of the TV adaptation is actually quite good. Obviously it’s not true to the book but it is still very good

[@emilyc6227]

I loved the first handmaids tale because of how eloquently written atwood's language was, and whilst i liked the testaments and its plot, its language just seemed more clunky to me??? I always found the historical notes so interesting it added an extra dimension to it, im so excited to be studying it for a level though!!!

[@emilyc6227]

Also pls more book reviews

[@kimraphjoon8644]

okay but now make a full video on the handmaid's tale and its analysis... that's what we want so please do it !!!!

[@EmmaSophieChannel]

[light spoilers]* * * * * * I agree generally! I did, however, really enjoy the exploration of Good/Evil in Aunt Lydia, how she does these horrible things but justifies them as being for her survival, but she still is one of the leading players in making the new life of women as horrible as it then becomes. I found the allusion to Paradise Lost in the inversion of the quote “Evil be thou my good” as “Good be thou my evil” interesting, although this is more intertextually interesting as I find characters (like the Creature in Frankenstein) who react to one of the most prominent sympathetic villains in English literature (Satan from Paradise Lost) fascinating to look at.

[@animeeti]

I know some people aren’t watching this but I BEGG YOU to make more book reviews !!

[@ellenmccarthy9168]

Loved this video. I would love to have more videos like this (talking about books critically)!

[@amberboydell5522]

I don't usually comment on videos but this video is GREAT! Love this style of video for you

[@rociobartesaghi5360]

I just finished the book and i couldnt agree more with you!

[@007shinette]

Loved this so much ! Yr thoughts, feelings and fact a out the book are so interesting. Thank you ! Me thinks you have an amazing future ahead of you young man !

[@maelysmay1406]

absolutely love this video!!! totally agree with everything you said, especially about her naming in the tv series - that felt so frustrating to me! I am optimistic about the book though and looking forward to reading it :)

[@luxemme8872]

Thx for this video and loving literature criticism myself this is GOLD! 😍 THT is one of my favourite books (as you do, I love dystopian novels) and I honestly did not go further than the first season of the series because of the same reasons you mentioned. I'm still sceptical about this "sequel". I love Atwood's literature so I'm confused on what to do!Thx for your insight!

[@sanjana_x_o]

Such a good analysis - u articulated how I felt so well!!!

[@justluc8556]

I loved this video so much! It maid (get it, Hand*maid*) my day much better :) Wayyy better than most book reviews ☺️ We need more of these, pls 😂

[@63angel]

I'm don't read a lot of books. I think the last book series that I read was "Left Behind" . I bought each of the books in the sequels the minute they came out. I do watch "Handmaids Tale" on HULU. I have been thinking about buying this book and I really enjoyed your views. I live in St. George, Utah and when I watch the shows, I'm reminded of the kinds of things that's happening here in the United States. I listen to the news and I read the things going on in the world. I can't help but think that with what's going on here with immigration, I for sure feel like we need to learn from history and to not let history repeat itself. I know that the books aren't actual history, but at the same time, parts of the books could happen to some degree. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I usually only buy and read books if others have said they read it and their views.

[@casie6609]

I wonder if they'll adapt The Testaments in the show (in later seasons maybe) the same way they did with season 1 that's really similar to the first book. Since seasons 2-4 weren't adapted from a book they'll have to make it so the storyline eventually correlates with the second book. As amazing as this show has been I hope they make it happen by at least giving a definitive ending to The Handmaid's Tale and then make another short series on The Testaments. I'm going to start reading both of them soon (just ordered them yesterday hehe) and I'm super excited 💛 Btw, you read the whole book in 3 days??? That's crazy 😂👏 I'm such a slow reader it'll probably take me weeks, Idk 😄 Edit: I read both books and LOVE THEM. I actually preferred the Testaments and it's my favorite book ever. Highly recommend .

[@anna-sofiak335]

I'd love if you made more videos like this!!