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leahgustafson 's review for:
Babel
by R.F. Kuang
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
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:
No
This one has been intriguing to me since the first time I heard about it. I’m glad I finally got around to picking it up even though it ended up being a little different than I expected.
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I love Robin’s character and the journey the reader goes on as a witness to his self-discovery. It was very interesting to watch him discover how the world works and grapple with new information and experiences. I also love the complexities and intricacies of the friendships, and I wish that had been more of a prominent focus of the book.
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The focus of colonialism and government control/power at the expense of the people offered some really great questions and reflection. The silverwork (fantastical element), while a little confusing at first, is such a genius tool for demonstrating the effects of colonialism. I also found the discussion of language and the art of translation fascinating. This is something I guess I “knew” but hadn’t given much previous thought to.
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This is a fantastic book club pick because there is so much to reflect on and discuss. I can’t put my finger on the exact reason this isn’t a “5” for me, but I just didn’t have that “5 ⭐️ feeling” at the end. However, it was very, very well done.
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Check out what I'm reading next on Instagram @LeahsLitReview!
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I love Robin’s character and the journey the reader goes on as a witness to his self-discovery. It was very interesting to watch him discover how the world works and grapple with new information and experiences. I also love the complexities and intricacies of the friendships, and I wish that had been more of a prominent focus of the book.
•
The focus of colonialism and government control/power at the expense of the people offered some really great questions and reflection. The silverwork (fantastical element), while a little confusing at first, is such a genius tool for demonstrating the effects of colonialism. I also found the discussion of language and the art of translation fascinating. This is something I guess I “knew” but hadn’t given much previous thought to.
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This is a fantastic book club pick because there is so much to reflect on and discuss. I can’t put my finger on the exact reason this isn’t a “5” for me, but I just didn’t have that “5 ⭐️ feeling” at the end. However, it was very, very well done.
•
Check out what I'm reading next on Instagram @LeahsLitReview!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Colonisation