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A review by podanotherjessi
Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
dark
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
I recognize the objective quality of this book. The writing is really incredible. There was a reflective and moving quality to the book that I enjoyed. But there was just no plot, and I was so bored.
This book is very episodic, which is a style that almost never works for me. There were some really exciting moments that I liked, when there was action or good character moments or conflict that was engaging. But most of the book was slow and plodding.
I also was lost by the worldbuilding. The explanation around what has happened to the world was just too vague. "Environmental disaster" is just too vague, and how di things escalate so quickly to be where it is? When it comes to apocalyptic stories, I just need more details.
And it's a small thing, but Lauren is just too competent and perfect. She never messes up, never has an emotional response. She's not unbelievable, but she's boring.
And yet, I still appreciate the book as a whole. Beautifully written. Poignant social commentary. As a vehicle for discussion, it's great. But as a story, it's just kind of dull.
This book is very episodic, which is a style that almost never works for me. There were some really exciting moments that I liked, when there was action or good character moments or conflict that was engaging. But most of the book was slow and plodding.
I also was lost by the worldbuilding. The explanation around what has happened to the world was just too vague. "Environmental disaster" is just too vague, and how di things escalate so quickly to be where it is? When it comes to apocalyptic stories, I just need more details.
And it's a small thing, but Lauren is just too competent and perfect. She never messes up, never has an emotional response. She's not unbelievable, but she's boring.
And yet, I still appreciate the book as a whole. Beautifully written. Poignant social commentary. As a vehicle for discussion, it's great. But as a story, it's just kind of dull.