liesbethvv's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
As usual I dove into this book head first, without knowing anything about the genre or the themes, just because the author and book come highly recommended.
I was completely surprised by the magical realism in this story and it took me a while to get used to it. Once I was on board with the concept of I was mesmerised by the rich language and strong characters Coates put to paper. Moving, propelling and highly imaginative, I enjoyed this ride out of my comfort zone.
I was completely surprised by the magical realism in this story and it took me a while to get used to it. Once I was on board with the concept of
Spoiler
conduction,Graphic: Violence and Slavery
Moderate: Torture, Racism, Racial slurs, and Grief
Minor: Sexual violence, Death of parent, Murder, Vomit, Pregnancy, Sexism, Confinement, and Abandonment
therainbowshelf's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
What if the Underground Railroad had some help from incredible magic powers? Hiram Walker, a man born into slavery, finds his life unexpectedly entangled with the Underground when strange happenings in his own life catch their attention.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting, and the book really took a hard look at the lives of enslaved black people in US history. I also liked that the story worked magic into the amazing work of the Underground Railroad without being reductive.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting, and the book really took a hard look at the lives of enslaved black people in US history. I also liked that the story worked magic into the amazing work of the Underground Railroad without being reductive.
Graphic: Blood, Confinement, Death, Death of parent, Forced institutionalization, Grief, Physical abuse, Racism, and Slavery
Minor: Racial slurs, Sexism, and Sexual assault
More...