A review by umbellule
The Adventures of China Iron by Gabriela Cabezón Cámara

adventurous challenging hopeful informative inspiring sad fast-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

4.25

I went in without knowing the epic poem that this is building upon/reinventing, but that bit of knowledge only makes the whole beautiful book even sweeter and more profound. A journey out of wretchedness, towards hope and peace, with friendship and redemption, in a fascinating setting. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Racism and Sexual content

Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Alcoholism, Animal death, and Sexual violence

Minor: Death, Domestic abuse, Drug use, Homophobia, Incest, Slavery, and Murder

There is a sexual relationship between a woman who seems about 20, and another whose age is not specified beyond being definitely 14+. A few animals are killed for food. Stories of murder, incest and rape are mostly told by other characters about off-screen events.