Reviews

Babel: An Arcane History by R.F. Kuang

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tlhreads's review against another edition

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challenging dark mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

4.25

freyacumber's review against another edition

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reflective

3.75

anglilian's review against another edition

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4.0

I thought the whole backdrop of the book was really on the nose at first but as I read on, I realized there is a point to blatantly reimagining the past. It points out structures of power we didn't previously see when they were wrapped in "complexities" like global trade, war, economics, etc.

Loved how the idea of silver working and appreciate the research it must have taken to do this!!

rebbi55's review against another edition

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5.0

I have been ripped to shreds by finishing this book…
I started this in December when I went to see R.F Kuang in person for a talk in Manchester and I got this copy as an early Christmas present and I’m finally finishing it - I feel fulfilled but lost. Robin especially was built up excellently and now I don’t know what to do with myself.

I’m definitely better writing bullet point things than a whole review so enjoy!

- I wasn’t too sure how I would react as I first read Yellowface which is completely different to Babel in so many ways. Plus I have been out of sorts with reading for months but I am happy to say I am out of my reading slump for now and this, along with my thoughts on Yellowface, just cements Kuang in my mind as an amazing author
- You can tell as you go through how much time, research and effort went into every part of this book. It’s full of story and characters but also details on translating, colonialism, imperialist ideas, etc. Compared to some other books (looking at u, Icebreaker) work was put in and it was completely worth it. Kuang is incapable of publishing a bad book.
- I kept away from spoilers so every twist just took me by surprise. Disappointed but not entirely surprised by one characters actions but we move and we grieve too
- as I’m writing this, I literally don’t know what to do or read next. Fresh out of Babel I literally don’t know what to do now

moonneedstoread's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

nargeshere's review against another edition

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5.0

"We have to die to get their pity."

I felt this book. Every chapter and every story.
I know how they felt about the path they're chosen to take.
About the university wich was home to them and had been taken from them by violence. About the fight that wasn't fair but worthy. All those fears and losses and decisions...
This one hit too close to home.