A review by elizbee
Babel by R.F. Kuang

challenging emotional informative reflective sad tense medium-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

4.0

This is a book I had a complicated and deeply emotional reaction to because it is a book full of complicated and deeply emotional subjects.  It's moving, it's compelling, it's often infuriating, and it doesn't leave you feeling good by any means, but it will make you think long and hard and deep about identity and power and your place in the world.  That isn't to say it's overly dense - the prose is always engaging and reads smoothly despite the often complex ideas being conveyed, and the plot keeps moving forward without a single wasted lull, and there are sparks of humor to lighten the mood.  It's full of rage and grief and disdain that can be hard to stomach at times, but at the core of everything is love and solidarity.  It is a challenge, and one I'm glad I experienced even if it wasn't always comfortable to do so.