A review by janiswong
Babel by R.F. Kuang

adventurous challenging dark emotional inspiring mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Phenomenal. A deep, enriching, well-researched book filled with the world's history, languages, and cruelty. Despite the dark past of colonialism, Kuang writes with beauty and elegance that brings the world to life, augmented with silver and science fiction that only brings out the reality of empire. Chapter seventeen is one of the most brilliantly written chapters I have ever read. I did find the last quarter to be slower and less interesting as the chapters filled the passage of time with perhaps a few expected turna. While perhaps the narrative is predictable at times, which may be difficult to avoid given the length and structure of the book, the literary details are exquisite. A masterful book that appeals to all audiences, each taking away their own lessons.