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A review by nadia
Black Buck by Mateo Askaripour
challenging
dark
funny
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I'm conflicted about how I felt about this book, which I listened to on audio thanks to Libro's ALC programme!
There was a lot of shouting and swearing and at times I was just like: I really don't need this in my ears right now. With this plot, you never knew what was coming up next, which sometimes put me off as it felt unbelievable, and at other times it's what kept me intrigued. I wasn't sure if I was meant to believe everything that was happening or if some of the drama and characters were purposefully over the top for satirical effect. This stuff was sometimes jarring when set next to some deep, emotional events!
However, there were many clever elements to this book. It's in your face with its focus on race, especially the experience of black people in America, and how prejudice and racism manifests itself in the day-to-day interactions, corporate environments, the healthcare system, and more.
Overall, I did enjoy this. It was a wild ride for sure. And Zeno Robinson is a super talented narrator.
Also, hands down, Mateo Askaripour wins best author's note ever!
There was a lot of shouting and swearing and at times I was just like: I really don't need this in my ears right now. With this plot, you never knew what was coming up next, which sometimes put me off as it felt unbelievable, and at other times it's what kept me intrigued. I wasn't sure if I was meant to believe everything that was happening or if some of the drama and characters were purposefully over the top for satirical effect. This stuff was sometimes jarring when set next to some deep, emotional events!
However, there were many clever elements to this book. It's in your face with its focus on race, especially the experience of black people in America, and how prejudice and racism manifests itself in the day-to-day interactions, corporate environments, the healthcare system, and more.
Overall, I did enjoy this. It was a wild ride for sure. And Zeno Robinson is a super talented narrator.
Also, hands down, Mateo Askaripour wins best author's note ever!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing and Racism