When She Woke
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011
368
Novel • Fiction
Future USA
2011
Adult
18+ years
In When She Woke by Hillary Jordan, Hannah Payne, a young woman living in a future theocratic Texas, undergoes a procedure called "melachroming" that dyes her skin red after being convicted of murder for having an abortion. Navigating a society where crimes are visibly marked on people, Hannah struggles for survival, grappling with her beliefs, relationships, and identity while fleeing to Canada, where she hopes to reverse the procedure and reclaim her life. The novel addresses themes of reproductive rights, religious control, and societal punishments.
Dark
Suspenseful
Challenging
Mysterious
Emotional
31,209 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
When She Woke by Hillary Jordan blends dystopian and contemporary themes, drawing both praise and critique. Reviewers commend its bold premise and thought-provoking social commentary. However, some find the characters underdeveloped and the plot somewhat predictable. Despite this, it remains a compelling and provocative read within feminist and speculative fiction genres.
A reader who would enjoy When She Woke by Hillary Jordan typically appreciates dystopian fiction with strong themes of social justice and individual rights. Fans of Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale and Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 might find this novel compelling for its critical look at future societal control and identity.
31,209 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Novel • Fiction
Future USA
2011
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!