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A review by booksborrowed
Babel by R.F. Kuang
emotional
informative
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I read this during the 2024 US elections, and I don't think anything else could have been more relevant. This thought provoking novel by R.F Kuang brought a lot of emotions. I went into this historical fantasy knowing very little about what to expect and was met with themes of colonialism, capitalism, prejudice and blatant racism. I haven't studied Latin in 20 years and was suprised I was able to keep up with the translations (all of which are offered in text).
Following Robin Swifts story from Canton to England to Oxford felt slow, which is shown to be intentional. The beginning of this novel goes through Robin's studies with his guardian, Professor Lovell, and his time at Oxford. All very mundane and studious. The real action starts after a trip back home to Canton with his classmates. The growth and realizations Robin is confronted with unravel quickly as he and his Bable classmates find more and more in common.
I felt overwhelmed while reading this because of the current political and social climate. However, it is okay to feel uncomfortable so we can learn and grow and create a more positive space for those not like us.
Following Robin Swifts story from Canton to England to Oxford felt slow, which is shown to be intentional. The beginning of this novel goes through Robin's studies with his guardian, Professor Lovell, and his time at Oxford. All very mundane and studious. The real action starts after a trip back home to Canton with his classmates. The growth and realizations Robin is confronted with unravel quickly as he and his Bable classmates find more and more in common.
I felt overwhelmed while reading this because of the current political and social climate. However, it is okay to feel uncomfortable so we can learn and grow and create a more positive space for those not like us.