Reviews

After reading such a heart breaking emotional autobiography every word seems insufficient to write a review. The author has had such a difficult childhood and is such a strong person, I’ll think about this for a while after finishing it. She is a poet which definitely shows in her writing. The way their family relations changed during time and how she fought to be herself was written very beautifully.

roohanin's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

5.0

An intense, emotional rollercoaster that reveals the harrowing consequences of prioritizing religion over humanity. Safia Sinclair's poetic prowess and compelling narrative make this memoir an unforgettable read.

Reading "How to Say Babylon" by Safia Sinclair was an intense and emotional journey that required multiple breaks to process. The memoir is a gripping rollercoaster of emotions, making me cry, and sharing in her anger and despair. Sinclair’s story starkly illustrates the consequences of prioritizing religion over humanity.

Before diving into this book, I was unfamiliar with Rastafarianism. The extensive backstory provided, even before her birth, was enlightening. However, it became clear that her family's extreme practice of religion should not be seen as a definitive representation of Rastafarianism. I suspect there is much more to the faith than what was depicted in her father's household, encompassing both positive and negative aspects.

I rarely use the word "hate" due to its intensity, but I genuinely hated her father throughout the book. His actions were profoundly disturbing. Despite the darkness, I was relieved to see Sinclair eventually finding a support system for her brother and mother.

Safia Sinclair masterfully crafts a coherent and compelling story arc in her memoir. While I typically do not enjoy poetry, as I often struggle to understand it, her poetic prowess shines through her prose. Although some of her poetic language puzzled me, I could still grasp the overarching meanings and emotions she conveyed.

Content Warnings

baileyanabella's review

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emotional reflective medium-paced

4.5

Beautifully written memoir. Safiya's writing ability shines so brightly in this book. She is very inspiring and this definitely made me tear up by the end!

reading_racc00n's review

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challenging dark emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad tense fast-paced

5.0

sissymachine's review

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challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

4.5

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