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sarahlizzie's review against another edition
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
This book is burdensome. I usually read quickly, so a 300 page short book should be able to be consumed in a few settings and not bedevil my life in the way this book has. No, this book took me far too long to read, because I couldn't bear to read more than 9 or 10 pages in one go. I did not relish or find comfort in picking it up. The plot, such that it can be called a plot, focuses on an elderly slave recalling his life story to a biographer, painting a harrowing, if humanising, portrait of life in an imagined 18th century Africa, aboard a slave ship, and in England. Through half-remembered flashbacks, circuitous hallucinations and bizarre interactions, the "story" unfolds. The traumatising details and racial slurs are, quite frankly, gratuitous. I suppose this is supposed to be a think-piece, but the only thought I found myself having throughout was "what the fuck am I reading?" If I am too stupid or too boring to understand the intellectual intricacies or artistry of this book, then I am grateful to live in such bliss. I give this two stars because of the book's redeeming purpose as a gift for someone you don't like.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Death, Racial slurs, and Slavery
Moderate: Antisemitism and Excrement
lisagreghi's review against another edition
3.0
I really liked this book in the overall and was positively surprised with this content! It is a bit harsh in its content because it talks about the slave trade in England and several images are very strong. At times it is also quite complicated to figure out who's talking or who the characters are, but it is all explained in the end. Enjoyable reading and would really suggest for anyonw interested in a more engaged piece of reading!
Lisa
Lisa
nerdybookies's review against another edition
challenging
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Loveable characters? No
3.0
readwithamie's review against another edition
5.0
*read for first year at university*
I loved this, such an important book exploring some really significant topics. I feel a little weird saying that I loved a book that was very difficult to read in places, don’t get me wrong it was not the most enjoyable read but it was so thought provoking that I want everyone to recognise what an interesting story this is.
There are some serious trigger warnings here especially concerning sexual assault and some graphic, gory images. However, the commentary of postcolonial literature and the different interests of those involved as well as the commodification of peoples stories is so important. It’s something I hadn’t really considered before and this opened my eyes to how centred around money life really can be.
I loved this, such an important book exploring some really significant topics. I feel a little weird saying that I loved a book that was very difficult to read in places, don’t get me wrong it was not the most enjoyable read but it was so thought provoking that I want everyone to recognise what an interesting story this is.
There are some serious trigger warnings here especially concerning sexual assault and some graphic, gory images. However, the commentary of postcolonial literature and the different interests of those involved as well as the commodification of peoples stories is so important. It’s something I hadn’t really considered before and this opened my eyes to how centred around money life really can be.
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