The state of Gilead, occupying the former territory of the United States, fifteen years after the uprising became even more closed off, and its laws became even harsher. Agnes Mackenzie, a pupil of Aunt Lydia's Elite Preparatory School for daughters of high-ranking military officials, is tasked with helping the new pupil Daisy, who arrived in Gilead from Canada, settle in. Soon a friendship develops between the two girls, which changes their lives, and an outsider's perspective helps Agnes understand how cruel and unjust the society around them is.