A review by alanadcr
Binti by Nnedi Okorafor

adventurous emotional hopeful reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

I tried to listen to Binti on audio last year but struggled with some of the unfamiliar vocab I decided this was one of those books I need to read. I'm so glad I picked it up because this was an incredibly interesting novella/short story. Weaving Himba culture in with the beauty of mathematics and master harmonizing had me fascinated. Also, the ships are somehow partially organic and that blows my mind.

My main complaint is this story deserved to be longer. My greedy reader-self wanted a deeper look at harmonizing and treeing.

Even with wanting more, I definitely recommend if you are looking for a quick, fascinating YA sci-fi that blends futuristic elements (think breathing ships, diverse alien races, and advanced electronics) all with Himba culture and a strong, Black female lead. I'll definitely be picking up the rest of Binti's story to see where Okorafor takes their readers.
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