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A review by amberleefowler
Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
2.5
I was really disappointed with this book. I have heard incredible things about the author, but despite the writing style pulling me in, and the interesting vampire lore and culture, I would not read this book again and struggled to finish in the first place.
I could not get over the appearance of Shori and despite understanding that Butler was attempting to discuss the shift of power dynamics in this book (age, race, sex), the level of description of Shori's prepubescent body and her sexual encounters with other characters is revolting. I think this aim could have been achieved without the outright and glaring pedophilia throughout the entire book.
There were also some other disappointments where the book did not live up to the hype, including the plot and dialogue.
I did love the unique take of vampire families and symbiotes as well as the discussion around race and identity but yeah pretty disappointing for how eager I was to read this book.
I could not get over the appearance of Shori and despite understanding that Butler was attempting to discuss the shift of power dynamics in this book (age, race, sex), the level of description of Shori's prepubescent body and her sexual encounters with other characters is revolting. I think this aim could have been achieved without the outright and glaring pedophilia throughout the entire book.
There were also some other disappointments where the book did not live up to the hype, including the plot and dialogue.
I did love the unique take of vampire families and symbiotes as well as the discussion around race and identity but yeah pretty disappointing for how eager I was to read this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Pedophilia, Adult/minor relationship, and Racial slurs
Moderate: Animal death