A review by scubaboo502
Human Acts by Han Kang

challenging dark emotional reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Although a work of fiction, this story is based upon the Gwangju Uprising that took place in Korea in 1980. If even half of what is described within this book actually happened, it will make you question what it means to be human and “humane”. The brutality of man and the sheer willpower to survive such brutality is awe-inspiring. The story is told interchangeably between the present and the future. And I loved that the author continued to give voice to characters after death. I encourage anyone who reads this to prepare yourself for the harsh realities of war and torture that are described herein. But once you do, it is well worth the read.
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