A review by its_kievan
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler

dark emotional fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I think maybe Butler just isn’t for me. Parable of the Sower didn’t do it for me, but at least I could see why it was so acclaimed. Kindred is obviously a very meaningful book for a lot of people, and its exploration of the psychology of slavery was absolutely fascinating, but everything else felt a little hollow. The 1800s setting was underdeveloped, and I just didn’t care enough about the 1976 setting to feel engaged in Dana’s attempts to get back. Same with Kevin and Dana’s relationship - they felt more like sketches than real characters. At the same time, though, the psychological aspects were really well done, and Butler’s skill is on full display as she makes you feel every inch of Dana’s desperation and helplessness.