A review by paulasnotsosecretdiary
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi

dark emotional informative sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Transcendent Kingdom is an intimate portrait of a young Ghanaian scientist trying to care for her severely depressed mother. As Gifty hopes her mother will come out of her struggle with mental illness, she reflects on her upbringing and how religion and emotional neglect keep her from having friendships and relationships with her peers and colleagues. The book explores the question of the soul as it relates to science and if religion has a role in scientific inquiry. It also explores facets of racism in the sciences and religion. These are the best bits. Although it's a far more personal story than Homegoing, there are a lot of plot points that feel not only familiar but well-worn. The writing draws the reader in and proves once more the talents of the author.
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