Margaret Atwood has never done things the usual way, and her upcoming memoir, Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts, proves that even when reflecting on her own life, she refuses to follow a traditional path. Set for release on November 4, 2025, by Doubleday in the United States, the book is a blend of personal history, memory and deep reflection.
Known for her sharp intellect, dry humor, and genre-defying storytelling, Atwood initially hesitated to write a memoir at all. “My publishers made me do it,” she joked, dismissing the idea as potentially “boring.” But as with everything she touches, the final product is anything but.
Rather than a straightforward chronological account, Book of Lives is a collection of stories that weave together the landscapes of her life—from her childhood spent in the Canadian wilderness to writing The Handmaid’s Tale in East Berlin, and her time in West Cork working on Alias Grace.
Atwood also explores her long partnership with fellow writer Graeme Gibson and her many notable encounters with literary and cultural icons. She doesn’t shy away from sharing both the absurd and the profound—what she calls the “stupid things and catastrophes” alongside moments of joy and inspiration.
Even the book’s cover reflects Atwood’s playfulness, featuring her draped in fuchsia—bright, bold, and undeniably herself- but also adding a nod to her standout and progressive views. 
This announcement coincides with the anticipation surrounding the release of the final season of “The Handmaid’s Tale” series and the forthcoming adaptation of “The Testaments.” Atwood’s influence continues to resonate with many readers and her works remain relevant and thought provoking in discussions around political and social issues, such as book banning.
Always thriving on challenging conversations the Book of Lives follows suit. More than just a memoir, it’s poised to be a layered, self-aware reflection of a life spent shaping literature, resisting categorization, and proving, once again, that Margaret Atwood doesn’t just tell stories—she rewrites the rules for how they should be told.
“Book of Lives” will likely offer readers an intimate glimpse into the life and mind of one of literature’s most influential figures, blending personal history with the broader cultural and political landscapes that have informed her award-winning writing for decades.
Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts
How does one of the greatest storytellers of our time write her own life? The long-awaited memoir from one of our most lauded and influential cultural figures.
An avid book reader and proud library card holder, Angela is new to the world of e-Readers. She has a background in education, emergency response, fitness, loves to be in nature, traveling and exploring. With an honours science degree in anthropology, Angela also studied writing after graduation. She has contributed work to The London Free Press, The Gazette, The Londoner, Best Version Media, Lifeliner, and Citymedia.ca.
