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A review by abooknomad
The Lies of the Ajungo by Moses Ose Utomi
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
The Lies of the Ajungo is a hell of a debut novella.
With a folk tale feel and brilliant storytelling and thematic approach, this under-100-page novella delivers a powerful and lasting message in a way that only fairy tales can: in the most enchanting of ways. I'm using the term "fairy tale" loosely here as this story veered away from the optimism and cosy vibes that are often associated with those and it got dark.
The Lies of the Ajungo is a story about a boy whose city is doomed to never have water again and whose people are forever destined to cut out their tongues in exchange for the slightest amount of water sent by a neighbouring empire, the Ajungo. It's a fantastical tale that explores many themes, from family and friendship to the abuse of power and oppression.
The magic could have been explored more in-depth, but in just under 100 pages this novella packs an emotional punch and takes the reader on a journey through the desert and the highs and lows of survival.
Cannot recommend it more if you need something short, but with strong worldbuilding.
ARC provided by Tordotcom, and the NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
With a folk tale feel and brilliant storytelling and thematic approach, this under-100-page novella delivers a powerful and lasting message in a way that only fairy tales can: in the most enchanting of ways. I'm using the term "fairy tale" loosely here as this story veered away from the optimism and cosy vibes that are often associated with those and it got dark.
The Lies of the Ajungo is a story about a boy whose city is doomed to never have water again and whose people are forever destined to cut out their tongues in exchange for the slightest amount of water sent by a neighbouring empire, the Ajungo. It's a fantastical tale that explores many themes, from family and friendship to the abuse of power and oppression.
The magic could have been explored more in-depth, but in just under 100 pages this novella packs an emotional punch and takes the reader on a journey through the desert and the highs and lows of survival.
Cannot recommend it more if you need something short, but with strong worldbuilding.
ARC provided by Tordotcom, and the NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.