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A review by jb4nay
Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
tense
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
4.5
I think this book is really important. It’s commentary on the carceral state and the need for abolition gave me a lot to think about.
As a novel, I think the world building was done well. Block points, the spectacle of the “games”, how people fighting for their lives get reduced to characters and icons was very interesting.
The rotating POVs and narration styles really brought you into the characters’ minds as they tried to keep parts of themselves alive.
I had some trouble staying engaged in the first third, but I’m glad I pushed through. The latter half was really compelling. I hope this book makes people keep thinking of a world focused on meeting needs rather than making examples of those who cause harm.
As a novel, I think the world building was done well. Block points, the spectacle of the “games”, how people fighting for their lives get reduced to characters and icons was very interesting.
The rotating POVs and narration styles really brought you into the characters’ minds as they tried to keep parts of themselves alive.
I had some trouble staying engaged in the first third, but I’m glad I pushed through. The latter half was really compelling. I hope this book makes people keep thinking of a world focused on meeting needs rather than making examples of those who cause harm.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Violence, and Blood
Moderate: Physical abuse, Rape, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail