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A review by annaavian
Babel by R.F. Kuang
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
slow-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
2.25
This book has garnered numerous glowing reviews, but personally, I found it a chore to go through.
Kuang's writing style bears a resemblance to that of an academic, presenting information in a top-down manner with a focus on conveying a message rather than delving into character or world-building. The characters feel one-dimensional, merely serving as mouthpieces for Kuang's ideas, maneuvered around like marionettes. While there are fantasy elements incorporated, they seem inconsequential against the backdrop of extensive technical discussions on linguistics and historical context.
Another aspect that didn't work for me was the inclusion of footnotes. They often came across as patronizing, hammering in obvious themes in a shallow manner.
Despite acknowledging Kuang's growth as a writer, "Babel" falls short of being a great story. It reads more like a dissertation on language than a fully immersive narrative, attempting to address numerous subjects without achieving depth.
The writing style is repetitive, echoing similar concepts across hundreds of pages, which left me with the impression of being preached rather than engaged in a rich storytelling experience.
Kuang's writing style bears a resemblance to that of an academic, presenting information in a top-down manner with a focus on conveying a message rather than delving into character or world-building. The characters feel one-dimensional, merely serving as mouthpieces for Kuang's ideas, maneuvered around like marionettes. While there are fantasy elements incorporated, they seem inconsequential against the backdrop of extensive technical discussions on linguistics and historical context.
Another aspect that didn't work for me was the inclusion of footnotes. They often came across as patronizing, hammering in obvious themes in a shallow manner.
Despite acknowledging Kuang's growth as a writer, "Babel" falls short of being a great story. It reads more like a dissertation on language than a fully immersive narrative, attempting to address numerous subjects without achieving depth.
The writing style is repetitive, echoing similar concepts across hundreds of pages, which left me with the impression of being preached rather than engaged in a rich storytelling experience.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racial slurs, Racism, and Colonisation
Moderate: War, Sexism, and Slavery