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s_novelli 's review for:
Yellowface
by R.F. Kuang
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
R.F Kuang is a brilliant writer and Yellowface is no exception to her talent. This novel brings forth many important perspectives on racism and reverse-racism, and explores the systematic issues within the publishing industry.
With all that in mind, there were times I found the wider commentary to be lacklustre. Kuang addresses some hard truths around white privilege and victimising, but at points it becomes so repetitive that you can’t help but think ‘okay, I get it’. However, within the wider scope of the novel, this may have been intentional to drive home the extremely unlikeable characteristics of Juniper, in which case it definitely worked.
I think it’s a massive testament to Kuang’s skill to have created a character so unlikeable that you can’t stop reading.
Yellowface was like a car crash you knew would only become more disturbing as the bodies were pulled out, yet you could not look away.
With all that in mind, there were times I found the wider commentary to be lacklustre. Kuang addresses some hard truths around white privilege and victimising, but at points it becomes so repetitive that you can’t help but think ‘okay, I get it’. However, within the wider scope of the novel, this may have been intentional to drive home the extremely unlikeable characteristics of Juniper, in which case it definitely worked.
I think it’s a massive testament to Kuang’s skill to have created a character so unlikeable that you can’t stop reading.
Yellowface was like a car crash you knew would only become more disturbing as the bodies were pulled out, yet you could not look away.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Death, Racism, Schizophrenia/Psychosis
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Rape, Suicidal thoughts