The Power

It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that makes me feel so dumb. I literally had the hardest time following what the heck was going on with this book. I kept persevering because I figured it would eventually come around, but it never did. I didn’t enjoy this book and I am seriously confused on what I missed because I’ve mostly seen rave reviews about this one on #bookstagram.

The basic premise of the book is interesting to me: women realize they have a secret power that basically flips our patriarchal society upside down. With this power, women no longer fear being harassed by men; in fact, men are now the ones who are scared to walk along the streets at night. Various countries even rise up where women have all the power – men must have a woman guardian, they are stripped of all their rights, and they answer to women for all their needs.

The concept is there and very intriguing to me, but the story just never fully developed for me. Because I found myself continually struggling to follow the story, it was hard for me to get engaged. I felt confused the entire time. I didn’t feel an overwhelming connection to the characters; ironically, I probably felt the most connected to the lone (major) male character, Tunde.

I believe there was so much potential for this storyline, but for me, it just wasn’t well-executed. I love the dystopian genre, so it goes without saying that I was excited for this one. As more people read it, I’m going to keep an eye on the reviews to see if I can find the missing piece for me…and who knows? After a reread, I may feel differently! Even though I’m not giving this a stellar review, I can tell it will be a book that sticks with me – and would provide lots and lots of book club discussion material.

Have you read Alderman’s The Power yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts below!