one_more_chapter96 's review for:

Babel by R.F. Kuang

4.25

adventurous challenging dark hopeful informative inspiring reflective tense slow-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: Complicated

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Incredibly written, researched and crafted - I felt like I was reading a university paper (but the most interesting and creatively written one ever, so not in a bad way!). There were so many heart warming and familiar moments in the story from the main cohort’s time as students at Uni that brought a lot of nostalgia. There were also a lot of really deep, soul aching points made (sometimes inadvertently) around race, religion, gender and morality that didn’t feel overbearing but were so impactful to read. This book was awe-some really. Quite dense on the foundation / character gilding to begin with but still interesting. Once you hit the 65% mark it all kicks off and is a whirlwind! I laughed, I definitely cried and I am in awe of this story. So heartfelt and introspective whilst being so interesting to learn about the world. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Racism, Colonisation, Classism

Moderate: Death, Drug use, Racial slurs, Xenophobia, Grief, Religious bigotry, Death of parent, Murder, Cultural appropriation, War

Minor: Physical abuse, Suicidal thoughts, Torture, Religious bigotry, Toxic friendship, Injury/Injury detail, Pandemic/Epidemic

There are a lot of triggering subjects covered in this book but they are based in historical contexts and explained from the perspective of those suffering them as part of a systemic classist and racist society under the rule of the British Empire. I think it is dealt with very well and whilst painful at times to read, it makes sense for the characters and is necessary for the story.