A review by krys_kilz
Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor

adventurous dark mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This novella was recommended to me by my favorite librarian and it really blew me away! The world building alongside Sankofa's complex and melancholy character hooked me from the start and I finished this book in one sitting. I have so many questions especially after the ending. It was ambiguous, but what it implied - at least to me - was fascinating. 

This almost reads as an anti-futurist work of science fiction, which is really different than anything within the genre that I've read before. The character's name - Sankofa - obviously introduces themes of the past in the present and future and a movement away from linear time. The ending also reminded me of Afropessimist concepts of ending/destroying the world in order to start again.

This book also raises really interesting questions about grief, storytelling, agency and belonging.

I am left with many questions, which is simultaneously exciting and frustrating. This definitely feels like a book I could return to and get even more out of the second read through. I am also really excited to dive into Okorafor's other work!
Expand filter menu Content Warnings