Scan barcode
A review by bando_bauldio
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5
Wow. What a story. Octavia Butler did it again. This was such a gut wrenching narrative that constantly had you on edge. Seeing the way Dana and Rufus’ relationship developed brought on so many complex emotions, especially Rufus’s character development. It also just makes you think about the way people are desensitized to severe systemic injustices, which I find very relevant to our current political climate. This is definitely a difficult and emotionally draining read, but 1000% worth it.
Graphic: Death, Police brutality, Racial slurs, Hate crime, Physical abuse, Racism, Slavery, and Blood
Minor: Rape and Sexual assault
One qualm I have with Octavia’s books is her affinity for younger women dating older men. I mean, Kevin and Dana didn’t have a huge age gap, but it’s something I’ve noticed.