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A review by queer_bookwyrm
The World We Make by N.K. Jemisin
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
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? No
5.0
5 ⭐ CW: racism, metaphysical violence
The World We Make by N.K. Jemisin is the second book in the Great Cities duology. This book is just as good as the first one! I can't speak highly enough of the level of world/universe building Jemisin does. I just love how layered everything is. I also love that it flips Lovecraftian horror on its head and makes an urban fantasy, cosmic horror that definitely has H.P. Lovecraft's racist ass turning in his grave.
We continue to follow Neek, the New York City avatar, and the boroughs after the battle in Staten Island. R'lyeh, the Squigglebitch, has taken up residence over Staten Island, influencing the people that live there and affecting collective sentiments about New York. The avatars are doing their best to fight against anti-New York concepts and "Make New York Great Again" politicians while still missing a piece of themselves. Aislin, the Staten Island avatar, is coming to terms with her choices and what Squigglebitch is doing to her family and her island.
We get to see and learn more about other Cities and their avatars. The New Yorks keep trying to get a Summit of the Cities to happen to convince them to help fight against Squigglebitch, but just like in real life, people prefer denial and to blame the victim if it will save them from discomfort. Our characters get more growth, which I love. Everyone is so queer! Well, except for Staten Island lol.
These books are just so excellent, and beautifully written. Everyone should read these books, but especially if you love New York.
The World We Make by N.K. Jemisin is the second book in the Great Cities duology. This book is just as good as the first one! I can't speak highly enough of the level of world/universe building Jemisin does. I just love how layered everything is. I also love that it flips Lovecraftian horror on its head and makes an urban fantasy, cosmic horror that definitely has H.P. Lovecraft's racist ass turning in his grave.
We continue to follow Neek, the New York City avatar, and the boroughs after the battle in Staten Island. R'lyeh, the Squigglebitch, has taken up residence over Staten Island, influencing the people that live there and affecting collective sentiments about New York. The avatars are doing their best to fight against anti-New York concepts and "Make New York Great Again" politicians while still missing a piece of themselves. Aislin, the Staten Island avatar, is coming to terms with her choices and what Squigglebitch is doing to her family and her island.
We get to see and learn more about other Cities and their avatars. The New Yorks keep trying to get a Summit of the Cities to happen to convince them to help fight against Squigglebitch, but just like in real life, people prefer denial and to blame the victim if it will save them from discomfort. Our characters get more growth, which I love. Everyone is so queer! Well, except for Staten Island lol.
These books are just so excellent, and beautifully written. Everyone should read these books, but especially if you love New York.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism