Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts

Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts by Margaret Atwood is an autobiographical work capturing the life and times of one of the most important writers of our time. Raised by scientifically minded parents in the wild northern Quebec forest, Atwood recounts her unconventional and sometimes isolated childhood, connecting key moments of her life to the literary works that have shaped the contemporary literary landscape. The memoir covers pivotal experiences such as a harsh school year that inspired Cat's Eye and her time in 1980s Berlin where she began The Handmaid's Tale. Interwoven with reflections on the natural world, political turning points, and her enduring love for fellow writer Graeme Gibson, the book offers readers a vivid exploration of Atwood's creative universe, the interplay between real life and art, and the workings of her bold imagination. Spanning 624 pages, this deeply personal narrative is enriched with encounters including poets, bears, Hollywood stars, and vibrant characters reminiscent of Atwood's novels. It was published in November 2025 by Vintage Publishing in London.