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A review by albernikolauras
Riot Baby by Tochi Onyebuchi
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
This book follows a brother born during the LA Riots and a sister who can see the future. Riot Baby had the build up of a riot - a slow, even start that becomes angrier and more frustrated at a world that won't provide them the rights they deserve. The writing didn't hold your hand as you are moved through the main character's lives in big time jumps, some time fluidity, and short vignettes.
I really enjoyed this series. It reminded me so much of the Los Angeles I grew up with - especially at the beginning. I loved how Tochi Onyebuchi portrayed his themes relentlessly and without mercy. His writing is skillful. There's no way of capturing all of this book in a single read, but it stands by itself on a single read with no issues.
I really enjoyed this series. It reminded me so much of the Los Angeles I grew up with - especially at the beginning. I loved how Tochi Onyebuchi portrayed his themes relentlessly and without mercy. His writing is skillful. There's no way of capturing all of this book in a single read, but it stands by itself on a single read with no issues.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Police brutality, Racism, Pregnancy, Violence, and Hate crime
Moderate: Medical trauma