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A review by mgerboc
Ring Shout by P. Djèlí Clark
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is one of the most unique, creative, and memorable stories I've read in a while. It takes place in 1922 Georgia with Jim Crow and a resurgent KKK at the forefront - however, instead of a documentary account of that horror, this is real life in within the fantasy horror genre. This draws on American history, Black American mythology, Lovecraftian horror elements, beloved classic fantasy tropes, and ties all of that together and more into a really interesting critique on hate, vengeance, racism, and a slew of other topics still sadly relevant in today's world.
I haven't had much luck with novellas, but Clark somehow manages a vivid and interesting plot, distinct and memorable characters (Maryse is one of my new favorite protagonists, and the supporting cast of Chef and Sadie are beautifully realized), and some of the most creative and terrifying imagery I've ever read.
I haven't had much luck with novellas, but Clark somehow manages a vivid and interesting plot, distinct and memorable characters (Maryse is one of my new favorite protagonists, and the supporting cast of Chef and Sadie are beautifully realized), and some of the most creative and terrifying imagery I've ever read.