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A review by waverb
Babel by R.F. Kuang
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
fast-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? Yes
5.0
This is a life changing story about love, language, colonialism, and revolution. Every detail seems meticulously thought out.
For example, look up the etymology of the names of all major characters. Kuang chose these names precisely and the characters reflect their names beautifully.
In my search, I discovered a supreme court case in the USA, Lovell v. Griffin. The names of Robin's colonizer father and his mixed race rebel brother. The court case relates to freedom of speech as it pertains to pamphlets and leaflets 🤯 pamphlets were a major tool of the Hermes society.
I'll be recommending this book to everyone I know. Kuang guides the reader through philosophical discussions in a way that feels welcoming and approachable. This is perhaps the most beautifully written book I have ever read.
For example, look up the etymology of the names of all major characters. Kuang chose these names precisely and the characters reflect their names beautifully.
In my search, I discovered a supreme court case in the USA, Lovell v. Griffin. The names of Robin's colonizer father and his mixed race rebel brother. The court case relates to freedom of speech as it pertains to pamphlets and leaflets 🤯 pamphlets were a major tool of the Hermes society.
I'll be recommending this book to everyone I know. Kuang guides the reader through philosophical discussions in a way that feels welcoming and approachable. This is perhaps the most beautifully written book I have ever read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Confinement, Death, Gun violence, Physical abuse, Racial slurs, Racism, Slavery, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Xenophobia, Blood, Police brutality, Trafficking, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Colonisation, War, Classism, and Deportation