A review by samanthabreading
Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

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

4.25

“Not now,” I said. “I can’t see how anything is going to work out now. Everything’s too crazy.” 
“And what? Do you think it’s going to get sane? It’s never been sane. You just have to go ahead and live, no matter what.”

I struggled to review this book. There was SO much to think about, and it all continues to linger. Reading about climate change burning California in 2025 as California was and is actively burning is a heartbreaking foreshadowing (still in awe she wrote this in the early 90s but set the story in 2024 onward) on Butler’s part. She did not miss on the other aspects of this book either. Her exploration of the metaphysical aspects of change and belief, discussions around preparedness, and collective survival. 

At one point, the FMC states “It was a terrifying, looming, moving wall.” What a striking and horrifying symbol to what it feels the reality America is really moving towards. That is the biggest gut punch. I have not felt this reading other dystopian novels. This world does not feel very far off, especially when looking at the boundaries and interactions between governmental institutions and its society and interpersonal relationships in dire times. I had to know what happened next so I immediately jumped into book two. 

A final note, this book includes ALL the heaviness one can probably think of so please take care. Reading a lighter book in conjunction helped me. 💕
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