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A review by ladygetslit
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
challenging
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Yellowface was a fascinating look into the inner workings of the publishing industry through the eyes of a white woman who feels like she’s being overlooked in the age of diversity.
As a white woman who at one point hoped to make it as a published author, this book gave me so much anxiety. I fully understand what Kuang was trying to do with the book, but it was difficult to read, even though it felt like the story flew by.
In the end, I was left feeling… kind of lost. I feel like the premise—racist white lady tries to take credit for her deceased Asian friend’s writing—forced the book into a box when it could’ve been more complex.
Overall: worth the read, but it could have gone further in its critique of the publishing industry and racism within the book world in particular.
As a white woman who at one point hoped to make it as a published author, this book gave me so much anxiety. I fully understand what Kuang was trying to do with the book, but it was difficult to read, even though it felt like the story flew by.
In the end, I was left feeling… kind of lost. I feel like the premise—racist white lady tries to take credit for her deceased Asian friend’s writing—forced the book into a box when it could’ve been more complex.
Overall: worth the read, but it could have gone further in its critique of the publishing industry and racism within the book world in particular.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Panic attacks/disorders, and Racism
Moderate: Rape and Sexual assault