​Secret Book Club — The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

​​Secret Club is a community for women in Helsinki. You can learn more about us on Instagram or on our website.

​Secret Book Club

​Welcome to the Secret Book Club! We meet monthly for cozy, women-only discussions on books that inspire and challenge us, prioritizing female authors.

​We like to keep our group small to make sure everyone can have meaningful conversations. If you can't make it, please let us know in advance so we can offer your spot to someone on the waiting list.

​About the Book

​In The Penelopiad, Margaret Atwood reimagines the classic myth of The Odyssey through the eyes of Penelope, Odysseus's faithful wife. While Odysseus embarks on his legendary journey, Penelope is left to manage their kingdom, fend off suitors, and raise their son, all while waiting for her husband's uncertain return.

​Atwood's narrative dives deep into the untold side of this ancient story, bringing Penelope’s voice to life as she reflects on her role in the myth, her struggles with loyalty, and the silent power she wielded in a male-dominated world.

​In typical Atwood fashion, The Penelopiad explores themes of power, betrayal, and gender, turning the familiar epic on its head by questioning traditional narratives and exposing myth's consequences from a female perspective. The novel is laced with sharp wit, poignant reflections, and a haunting chorus from the twelve maids whose tragic fate is often overlooked in the original tale.

​I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this captivating retelling!

​Next Books

• ​November 16th – I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

• ​December 7th - The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

• ​January - Winter Break 🎿

• ​February - A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara