A review by bookishllly
Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor

adventurous challenging emotional informative reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Familial expectation wars against an author’s personal ambition in this mixed genre novel about a paraplegic Nigerian-American woman, Zelu.

I enjoyed the book even though it was long. Told from mainly Zelu’s POV and those of her family and friends, we are taken on Zelu’s impulsive, fearless and sometimes irrational journey as an author, adrenaline junkie, daughter, sister, friend and wife.

Embedded in this book is a symbolic and satirical story about the end of the world and robots taking over. I enjoyed the sci-fi bit but felt it ended abruptly just as the fictional part.

There were so many things the author took a swipe at- patriarchy, ableism, sexism, cancel culture, nationalism, family dynamics, dysfunctional relationships, social media culture and racism.

There was so much to pack in. The literary fiction part was believable with the characters relatable and interesting. The story of the robots also packed its punch.

This is an incredible masterpiece making three distinct parts of a book work together yet independently and seamlessly.

I look forward to reading more from this author.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings