Margaret Atwood is 60 and has just released a new book. The publicity machine is buzzing at a higher pitch than ever before. “Being as famous as Atwood must be like carrying a bundle around on your back. People recognize you on the street. Even if they don’t speak to you, they give you knowing looks, or else they avert their gaze as though you have a bizarre virus that is transmitted by eye contact. People want stuff from you – autographs, donations, appearances, opinions, money, patronage.” – The Globe and Mail (Canada)