First, I would like to thank those who have dedicated themselves so energetically to banning my novel, “The Handmaid’s Tale.” It’s encouraging to know the written word is still taken so seriously.

That thought aside, I would like to congratulate the students, parents and teachers who have supported the use of my book in Advanced Placement courses. They have aligned themselves against the censors, book-banners and book-burners throughout the ages and have stood up for open discussion and a free expression of opinion — which, last time I looked, was still the American way, though that way is under pressure.

I would also like the comment on the objections to the book that have been made. The remark “offensive to Christians” amazes me — why are some Christians so quick to see themselves in this mirror?  more…