A review by emhunsber
Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler

adventurous dark reflective sad medium-paced

• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Thought-provoking and complex, Talents continues the story of Lauren and her Earthseed community, following the struggles and triumphs of establishing both a physical community and a religious movement. Striking a balance between macro- and micro-focused storytelling, Butler's prophetic writing speaks to the struggles of racism, sexism, and economic inequality intertwining with a politician who thrives on polarization inflamed by fear and instability, and examines the downfall and rebuilding of a nation quick to scapegoat for survival. Both introspective and acutely perceptive, Talents invites readers to imagine a future in which a grassroots movement can create lasting and effective change, while depicting characters and storylines that are realistic and loveable.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Violence, Slavery, Sexism, Physical abuse, Murder, Hate crime, Gun violence, Genocide, Emotional abuse, and Death

Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Biphobia, Child abuse, Death, Emotional abuse, Genocide, Gun violence, Homophobia, Physical abuse, Pedophilia, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, and Torture

Minor: Adult/minor relationship, Biphobia, Child abuse, Death, Domestic abuse, Drug use, Homophobia, Incest, Misogyny, Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Racism, Rape, Religious bigotry, Self harm, and Suicidal thoughts