A review by satellitesiken
Assembly by Natasha Brown

challenging emotional informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

How do we examine the legacy of colonization when the basic facts of its construction are disputed in the minds of its beneficiaries?

With its many incisive observations and beautiful prose, Natasha Brown's literary debut is a stunning and sharp examination of race, british history (colonialism), capitalism and misogyny. Unfaltering in her candour, and in an very deadpan, eloquent, sometimes witty
and often gut-wrenching manner, this unnamed narrator's (Black british woman of Jamaican descent who works in finance) authentic portrayal of the impacts of Colonialism, everyday microaggressions and the general Othering that marginalised groups
experience is genius. How a novel this short can pack such a punch is nearly inconceivable to me.

Be the best. Work harder, work smarter. Exceed every expectation. But also, be invisible, imperceptible. Don't make anyone uncomfortable. Don't inconvenience. Exist in the negative only, the space around. Do not insert yourself into the main narrative. Go unnoticed. Become the air. 
Open your eyes.

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