Trump victory surges sales of dystopian novels

Readers flock to books on democracy and feminism

In the aftermath of Donald Trump's recent election victory, a wave of books tackling democracy, tyranny, feminism, and far-right politics have surged in popularity. Titles that probe the tension between freedom and oppression, explore feminist struggles, or dissect rising authoritarianism are drawing readers in droves, according to The Guardian.

Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale—set in a nightmarish world where women are reduced to reproductive vessels—catapulted over 400 places on Amazon's bestseller list, currently holding third place. The novel's disturbing themes have struck a fresh chord with readers concerned about personal freedoms in today's political climate.

Historian Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny has also seen a dramatic climb, rising to number eight as readers seek guidance on recognising and resisting authoritarian tactics. Meanwhile, George Orwell's dystopian classic Nineteen Eighty-Four has resurfaced in 16th place, indicating a renewed interest in Orwell's prophetic take on surveillance and propaganda.

Newer works are joining the ranks. Democracy in Retrograde by Sami Sage and Emily Amick, which scrutinises the erosion of democratic norms, saw a staggering 30,000 per cent sales increase, soaring up the Movers and Shakers list. Likewise, Rebecca Solnit's Men Explain Things to Me, a feminist essay collection from 2014, jumped over 40,000 spots. In a Guardian piece, Solnit attributed Trump's win to a broader failure to grasp the depths of racism and misogyny in America, pointing to the election of a controversial figure over a highly qualified Black woman.

Books exploring the complexities of America's evolving political landscape are also on the rise. Paola Ramos' Defectors, which examines the appeal of far-right ideology among Latino voters, surged after exit polls revealed Trump's gains among this demographic, particularly Latino men. Laura Bates' Men Who Hate Women, analysing the online radicalisation of young men, saw similar momentum, especially as polls showed Trump winning nearly half of the young male vote.

Kamala Harris' memoir, The Truths We Hold, has climbed nearly 2,000 places, a stark contrast to the steady popularity of works by JD Vance and Melania Trump. While Melania's memoir currently tops the bestseller chart, Harris' introspective look at leadership and resilience has secured spot 345. As political dynamics continue to evolve, readers are reaching for books that illuminate, critique, and even warn against the troubling undercurrents shaping society today.