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A review by yomireads
Babel: An Arcane History by R.F. Kuang
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
sad
tense
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? Yes
5.0
... this book destroyed me. It was like trying to explain systemic racism and oppression to an entitled white boy who believes "its all in the past." That feeling? Perfectly distilled. The most frustrated I've felt reading an absolute 5 star read. The magic was unique and perfect for playing with the political dynamic between the colonized world and those it takes advantage of.
Have I had more fun reading a magical realism/fantasy novel? Yes. But was fun and escapism the point of this particular book? Not at all. Don't read if you aren't willing to acknowledge the missteps of history, or feel uncomfy staring white-privilege in the face.
Have I had more fun reading a magical realism/fantasy novel? Yes. But was fun and escapism the point of this particular book? Not at all. Don't read if you aren't willing to acknowledge the missteps of history, or feel uncomfy staring white-privilege in the face.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Hate crime, Physical abuse, Racial slurs, Racism, Xenophobia, Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Cultural appropriation, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship, Colonisation, War, and Classism
Moderate: Addiction, Alcoholism, Bullying, Child abuse, Child death, and Alcohol