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sargasso_c's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
THE BIRD KING by G. Willow Wilson is a unique novel that combines religion and exploration of self. Set at the fall of the Ottoman empire, THE BIRD KING touches upon many different characters, centering around Hassan and Fatima (or Fa as only her beloved call her). One is a man who can make maps to imaginary places, the other a favored concubine to the sultan - born and raised owned. The two share a fierce friendship that is tested time and again as they strive to outrun the sun setting on the kingdom of Alhambra.
While this book didn't speak to me constantly, there were definite tones throughout that resonated. Fa is an angry woman looking for a way to make that anger useful. She is all too relatable, even as a woman birn over half a century ago. The representation in the book is varied and appreciated. I've never seen the Ottoman empire from this perspective before, and look forward to what other stories Wilson has to tell.
While this book didn't speak to me constantly, there were definite tones throughout that resonated. Fa is an angry woman looking for a way to make that anger useful. She is all too relatable, even as a woman birn over half a century ago. The representation in the book is varied and appreciated. I've never seen the Ottoman empire from this perspective before, and look forward to what other stories Wilson has to tell.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Homophobia
Minor: Adult/minor relationship and Death of parent
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