A review by ____nique
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

challenging funny medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

This is one of the most confusing books I have ever read. 

I’ve been wanting to read this book since I don’t know when, but I was so hesitant before because I thought this would be another depressive self-loathing brain-rotting book. However, when I read its blurb, I was caught off guard and started reading it. I read it for nearly a month because I was so busy and had a lot of academic readings due, and I wanted to give my brain and eyes some time to relax by not reading any words. 

Anyway, this is one of the most perplexing books I've ever read, not because the plot is difficult to follow, but because Kuang writes her main character exceptionally well. Until now, I had not decided whether I disliked Juniper Hayward or empathised with her. At the start of the story, I was certain that she was extremely irritating and that what she did was unforgivable. However, in the middle of the story, Kuang makes a turning point at which you might think June's actions were justified– but given how cruel June's actions were, it would also reflect on the reader whether or not one supports June's white supremacist views and would ignore the main point of the story about the marginalized sectors, particularly Asian immigrants. 

This is a fantastic read, but I found some parts repetitive and others irrelevant and tedious to read. But, overall, I enjoyed reading these types of genres! 


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