A review by swalk
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
challenging
dark
funny
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Athena Liu and June have been friends since their time at Yale, but June has always been resentful of Athena. This friendship continued past college, but sadly June has always felt resentful of Athena, who at 27 June has numerous published books, been offered a Netflix deal and is a hugely successful author. June on the other hand has published one book, which was a resounding flop. So when Athena chokes to death on pandan pancakes at her apartment with June in tow, June takes it upon herself to steal Athenas most recently drafted manuscript and rewrite it as her own.
Written as the internal monologue of June Hayward, it’s easy to see her thoughts at the beginning through as sympathetic lens, however as the book builds it is clear that June is a complete narcissist who has been hiding more and more of her outrageous opinions as it progresses. The story is at once hugely awkward and cringeworthy, but wholly compelling. The creeping nature of June’s actions escalate, as she lives an entirely insular existence and convinces herself that this behaviour is entirely normal and even warranted; it soon becomes apparent that June is unravelling mentally.
This is an immersive first person narrative which is entertaining, shocking and funny, but also leads to a lot of self reflection. Why do we sympathise with the protagonist at times and where are the lines drawn?
Written as the internal monologue of June Hayward, it’s easy to see her thoughts at the beginning through as sympathetic lens, however as the book builds it is clear that June is a complete narcissist who has been hiding more and more of her outrageous opinions as it progresses. The story is at once hugely awkward and cringeworthy, but wholly compelling. The creeping nature of June’s actions escalate, as she lives an entirely insular existence and convinces herself that this behaviour is entirely normal and even warranted; it soon becomes apparent that June is unravelling mentally.
This is an immersive first person narrative which is entertaining, shocking and funny, but also leads to a lot of self reflection. Why do we sympathise with the protagonist at times and where are the lines drawn?
Helen Laser is an excellent narrator, who really makes you feel like you’re inside June’s deepest thoughts.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism, Racial slurs, and Xenophobia
Minor: War