This book took me back to my early 20's when I first read it. I didn't realize it then, but it is a really great period piece. The future embodies all the feminist, socialist ideals of the 60's and 70's.

I still love this book because the protagonist, Connie Ramos, is raw and her life is so rough around the edges. Too often, authors produce sanitized characters (but I think their readers want this). But Marge Piercy really makes you feel how difficult every day life is for Connie - even the smallest thing, like having clean clothes or finding matches. And you understand why she is so profoundly tired, as her life is piled up with both small and large injustices.

I wavered between giving this book a 4 or a 5. I wish there was a 4.5 category. There were a few things I would change - maybe the future wouldn't have to be so idealistic. I appreciated that she built some flaws into the system - such as jealously. But I have my doubts that the system would be so ideal.