45 pages • 1 hour read
Woman on the Edge of Time
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Book Brief
369
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
1976
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Woman on the Edge of Time follows Connie Ramos, an impoverished Mexican American woman in the 1970s who, after being unjustly committed to a psychiatric hospital, is visited by a time traveler from a utopian future. The novel alternates between Connie's struggles in the hospital and her visits to the future society of Mattapoisett, which embodies feminist and ecological ideals. The book discusses racism, sexual violence, addiction, and medical abuse, among other sensitive topics.
Mysterious
Challenging
Contemplative
Fantastical
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
19,038 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Marge Piercy's Woman on the Edge of Time is widely praised for its imaginative vision and feminist themes. Critics appreciate its complex narrative and bold exploration of social issues. Some, however, find its characters underdeveloped and the plot occasionally hard to follow. Overall, it's a thought-provoking, if sometimes challenging, read.
Who Should Read Woman on the Edge of Time?
Fans of speculative and feminist literature will appreciate Woman on the Edge of Time by Marge Piercy. Comparable to Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, it appeals to readers who enjoy exploring societal issues through dystopian and utopian narratives. Ideal for those interested in social justice, gender studies, and the transformative power of imagination.
19,038 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Luciente
Luciente
A time-traveling citizen from the future with androgynous style and Indigenous American features, who connects with Connie to highlight alternative societal norms.
Bee
Bee
A resident of Mattapoisett described as strong and gentle, he works at the brooder and shares a loving relationship with Luciente, showcasing non-traditional masculine traits.
Jackrabbit
Jackrabbit
A youthful and humorous resident of Mattapoisett, known for his vibrant personality and artistic pursuits, whose journey towards maturity ends abruptly.
Dolly Camacho
Dolly Camacho
Connie’s niece, portrayed as beautiful but naive and entrapped in a harmful relationship with her boyfriend, reflecting traditional views on gender and dependency.
Sybil
Sybil
A fellow patient at Rockdale Hospital, Sybil is a fiercely independent woman who practices Wicca and helps Connie in a fight, displaying loyalty and strength.
Skip
Skip
A patient at Rockdale Hospital who is the son of wealthy parents, exhibits gender nonconformity and faces severe consequences due to society's expectations, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome.
369
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
1976
Adult
18+ years
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