Reviews of Margaret Atwood's The Blind Assassin commend its intricate narrative structure and rich, layered storytelling. Readers appreciate the blending of genres and compelling characters. Some find it dense and challenging, with pacing issues in parts. Overall, it is hailed as a thought-provoking and masterfully crafted novel that rewards patient readers.

Lovers of intricate narratives and multi-layered storytelling will relish The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood. Fans of novels like The Handmaid's Tale and Atonement by Ian McEwan, which explore complex characters and intertwined plots, will find this blend of historical fiction and literary drama captivating.

The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood intertwines three narratives: Iris Chase Griffen’s memoir recounting her troubled family history, a novel-within-a-novel originally attributed to her deceased sister Laura but actually penned by Iris, and a story set in the fantastical city of Sakiel-Norn told by lovers in Laura's novel. The narratives explore themes of love, loss, and the complex interplay between personal and familial legacy. The book includes sensitive topics such as sexual abuse, mental health struggles, and untimely deaths.

Mysterious / Dark / Melancholic / Bittersweet / Contemplative

Margaret Atwood

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Blind Assassin and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Blind Assassin Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Books 1–2	

The Blind Assassin Books 1–2	 Summary & Analysis

Book 3	

The Blind Assassin Book 3	 Summary & Analysis

Book 4

The Blind Assassin Book 4 Summary & Analysis

Book 5

The Blind Assassin Book 5 Summary & Analysis

Books 6–7

The Blind Assassin Books 6–7 Summary & Analysis

Book 8

The Blind Assassin Book 8 Summary & Analysis

Books 9–11	

The Blind Assassin Books 9–11	 Summary & Analysis

Books 12–13	

The Blind Assassin Books 12–13	 Summary & Analysis

Books 14–15	

The Blind Assassin Books 14–15	 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Blind Assassin Character Analysis

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Themes

The Blind Assassin Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Blind Assassin Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Blind Assassin Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Blind Assassin Essay Topics

The Blind Assassin

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Blind Assassin?

Reading Age

Book Details