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jayisreading's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
4.25
I got a taste of Ndlovu's writing from the anthology, Africa Risen, which featured one of her short stories from Drinking from Graveyard Wells. While that particular story wasn't a favorite, I did enjoy the depth of her writing. This short story collection was a fascinating one, taking a speculative approach to immerse the reader into (primarily) Zimbabwean culture and history.
Overall, the collection addressed dark themes, especially to think about the oppressed (broadly speaking). I wouldn't say that these stories were pessimistic in nature, though, and still had glimmering moments of hope. I also found it interesting how Ndlovu navigated contending with the past and traditions through her characters living in modern times.
Really thought-provoking collection. Some things flew over my head, mostly because I'm not very familiar with Zimbabwean culture and history, but it was an opportunity to learn more and be immersed in some well-crafted stories.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Colonisation, Death, Sexism, Sexual assault, Misogyny, and Body horror
Moderate: Racism, War, and Violence
starrysteph's review
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-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
4.5
Black mermaids defend their home by taking on environment-destroying politicians.
Flesh-eating ants … may just consume a billionaire.
Corrupt gods are stuck within capitalist power structures.
And that’s just the smallest peek into this PHENOMENAL collection.
Ndlovu writes fables, nuanced pieces that vary in style but craft powerful messages. The stories are very short: we’re looking through windows & witnessing bursts of life. The work is often surreal and takes inspiration from southern African mythology.
It’s frequently fantastical & magical, sometimes deeply intimate, and often veers into what feels like social horror.
Black women are the focus here. Drinking from Graveyard Wells honors and celebrates the magic of these women, but doesn’t shy away from their pain. The writing is gripping, empathetic, and intimate.
I was afraid and enamored and very moved.
Pre-order this collection ASAP. Or you’ll miss out on freedom-fighting shapeshifters and time traveling students and (rightfully) furious spirits … and just a whole lot of incredible content.
CW: death (including child death), murder, racism, colorism, genocide, war, colonization, sexual assault, body horror, pedophilia, abuse (emotional and physical), sexism, gun violence/mass shooting, war, classism
(I received an advance reader copy of this book; this is my honest review.)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Mental illness, Murder, Sexism, Sexual assault, Slavery, Toxic relationship, Violence, War, Xenophobia, Adult/minor relationship, Body horror, Child death, Racism, Child abuse, Chronic illness, Classism, Colonisation, Death, Death of parent, Grief, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Genocide, Gore, Gun violence, Infertility, Mass/school shootings, Pedophilia, Physical abuse, and Rape
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