This novel does not discredit the traditional values of the original Noah story, but it does challenge a certain kind of traditionalism which is often employed in the defense of the Bible. The idea that women are inherently weaker and less authoritative than men is obviously up for debate in this story. That happens in an epic and playful way, as the story throws witty jabs at conservative ideologies. For instance, the plot culminates into a kind of punchline where Mrs. Noah is able to save a larger remnant in her ark, and she is able to enjoy life with those women whom she saves, not thinking herself to be their superior.
This playful gender commentary isolates a misconception about masculinity and femininity with regard to executive action. There is an ethical power which is often credited to men as part of their inherent masculine pride, but which is also equally found in feminine pride, as Mrs. Noah clearly demonstrates. The true power of a human being comes from their ability to discern correct action and to correctly perform that action without hubris. In this case, femininity seems more naturally suited for true power, which is a worthy consideration indeed.
If what is meant by masculine is the ability to succeed in competition because of competence or advantage (a common rule of thumb for masculinity), then masculinity is poorly suited for higher kinds of power which are not rooted in domination or competitive prowess but in balance and peacefulness. This is a common ethical idea in multiple religions like Buddhism and Taoism, but even in Christianity; the Bible (Old and New Testaments alike) contains stories about women in power and women succeeding in great heroic actions, so instead of thinking of this book as a rejection of traditional principles, it is better to notice how much of that tradition is protected in this novel. The idea of its feminism is not to diminish the past or men, but to express the inherent majesty of life as a woman.
