booklywookly's reviews
65 reviews

The Emperor's Babe by Bernardine Evaristo

5.0

211 AD. Londonium. 11 year old Zuleika, born to Sudanese immigrants, has been married off to a wealthy, much older Roman business man. Despite her luxurious life, Zuleika craves excitement and passion, which she finds in an affair with the Roman Emperor, Septimius Severus. Is this gonna be a happily ever after story? Or will it turn out to be a Greek tragedy of Shakespearean proportion? (It turns out to be a tragedy of course). 

It’s a simple story, told in verses. Stylistic choice, though I admittedly have a difficulty in reading novels in verse, especially like this one, where sentences are broken haphazardly, and things don’t rhyme. But I was still able to enjoy the book fully. 

HOWEVER, what sets this book apart is the Afrocentric narrative that crushes all the expectations one could have when imagining early era London (raise your hand if it’s extremely white). Evaristo has spent time studying books by historians, learning that Africans had lived in Britain during the Roman occupation nearly eighteen hundred years ago.  By focusing on a black protagonist and her community, Evaristo subverts Eurocentric narratives that often marginalize or erase the presence of Africans in ancient history. This subversion is a form of resistance against the dominant historical discourse, offering an alternative perspective that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.

We have strong ambitious and promiscuous young women with radical ideas and yearnings living in a man’s world. The language used is so contemporary and modern that you would be forgiven not have remembered it being set in 2nd century Europe. It reminded me a lot of The Future Future (which I only read and reviewed last month and could well be my book of the year) 

This is my second Bernardine Evaristo book so far and I am already a fan.

Heads of the Colored People by Nafissa Thompson-Spires

4.0

My relationship with short stories hasn’t been that great lately but my god this was so good! 

A series of (loosely) interconnected stories that delve into the complexities of Black identity in post racial America. The stories are set in super contemporary times with a backdrop of some well known issues - systemic racism, microaggression , police brutality, mental health and trauma. 

What sets this collection apart from all other similar sounding books is its focus on black US citizenship, the black middle class, and the future of black American life during these times of changes and unrest. All the stories are literally inside the heads of the protagonists. Everyone’s overthinking. Everyone’s overanalysing. However successful they might be, there is this extra pressure to prove something. That extra pressure to fit in, to talk in a certain way, to dress in a certain way, to ensure that your kid doesn’t become instant friend with the only other black kid in school. Like if that happens, your cover will be blown. The extent they would go (have to go) to prove themselves equal and worthy of all they have achieved, the rivalry within black community, it’s sad, and claustrophobic. This book writes self doubt so well. 

Despite the heavy themes, the whole book is infused with dark humor and satire. It has the power to broaden your understanding of contemporary black life in America. It’s a book that challenges, entertains, and educates, and I loved it. 

Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo

4.0

Booker winner. Nominated for Women’s Prize. A lot has already been written about this book. 

This is a collection of interconnected stories centered around black women in Britain, over the course of a century. The stories appear free flowing with a faux-prose style of writing giving them a softness and lyrical touch. 

One of the central themes of Girl, Woman, Other is identity, particularly the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Through her characters, Evaristo explores what it means to be Black and female in a predominantly white society. Many of the women in the novel face challenges related to their racial or ethnic identities, but they also grapple with issues of sexual orientation, class, and feminism. The novel gives voice to characters who have historically been marginalized or silenced, and Evaristo deftly handles these multiple dimensions of identity with nuance and sensitivity.

What I liked the most about this book was the use of diverse voices. Were it a traditional book, you would have relied on just one or two central characters and cram in as many events and experiences and trauma you can into just one person and you would be like “When was this Hanya Yanagihara trauma porn released?” But, nah, Evaristo takes help of 12 different main characters with a giant serving of other side characters. The characters are all different - young, old, middle aged, sexually active, straight, LGBT, god-loving, god-fearing, economically independent, poor, gen x, gen z, feminists, and not so feminists, women, womxn, wimmin, womyn. DIVERSITY! I guarantee, there is a character to represent every reader. Made this book a tour de force that celebrated the multiplicity of voices of black British community. 

I do have a fair criticism though. Some stories could have been fleshed out a bit more. Hell I will say all the stories have the potential to become their own standalone novels. There were instances when towards the end of each story, things kind of just start happening one after another at a pace inconsistent with the rest of the story and once you observe that, it’s hard not to think of it as a convenient cop out.

But that could be a me thing only. This remains a groundbreaking and importamnt novel for a great representation of black community in British history, past and present. Overall, solid read. Highly recommended. 

The Future Future by Adam Thirlwell

5.0

I still can't wrap my head around the fact that this book wasn't in the Booker's Prize list last year. Or why I don't see people talking about it. Dare I say, this genre bending novel could be my favorite book of the year? (Yes). Adam Thirlwell's writing style reminds me of a mish mash (in a good way) of that of Amina Cain (Indelicacy) and Sheila Heti (Pure Colour), both among my favorite authors and books, with a sprinkle of Salman Rushdie. C'mon!

Meet Celine. A series of scandalous messages about her personal life circulating have upended her life. She has become a symbol of societal decay. The worst part? None of this is true. The rumors are created by men, spread by men, enjoyed by men, discussed by men. Celine is judged by men. It's a man's world.

So, what does Celine do? She decides to challenge the status quo by becoming one of the most influential figure in town. In the process, we see her journey from being subject of a scandal to her self discovery.

Oh, did I mention, we are in 18th century Paris? Thirlwell uses contemporary language throughout the book that makes you often forget which era it is set in. And that works so well because replace pamphlets by tweets and this historical fiction becomes as relevant to the modern times as it could be.

Philosophical discussion galore, The Future Future uses language as a central theme to explore power dynamics, societal control, personal identity.

I don't want to give in too much but there is a journey to moon, meeting with Napoleon, a guest appearance from a snobbish Marie Antoinette, talking trees, Igbt relationships, and the heartbreaking description of a cunning George Washington stealing land from the Natives.

If a book where literally all the male characters are either dumb, evil, or losers, and are being either challenged by strong female characters, or challenging (pathetically so) the said strong female characters makes you uncomfortable, this book isn't for you.

Honeybees and Distant Thunder by Riku Onda

5.0

Welcome to Yoshigae, home to prestigious global piano competition. Be ready to witness hundreds of young pianists fight it out for the top position for the next 2 intense weeks, filled with music, rivalry, and personal growth.

We majorly follow four central characters. Aya, once a child prodigy who stopped playing professionally after her mother’s death. Now 20, she is attempting a comeback, driven by her love for music and the memory of her mother. Masaru, a highly ambitious and skilled Juilliard student, who shares a past with Aya, as they knew each other as children in Tokyo. Akashi, who At 28, is the oldest competitor. He works in a music store with no formal training, and no association with any musical houses, representing the struggles of an everyday person balancing passion with practical life. And finally, Jin “Honeybee Prince,” a 16-year-old wonder who has never even owned a piano but has been nurtured by the most elusive maestro in piano world, and has a unique, natural talent that captivates everyone.

The competition acts as a crucible, bringing out the best and worst in the characters. It challenges them to confront their fears, ambitions, and past traumas.

For Aya, the competition represents a chance at redemption and a return to the world of music she once abandoned after her mothers’s death. For Masaru, it’s about making a name for himself and achieve the stardom a Juilliard student deserves. For Akashi, the competition is a last-ditch effort to achieve his dreams - to prove his worth and gain recognition in the music world dominated by prodigies. For Jin, the competition holds personal stakes, as his father promised to buy him a piano if he reaches the finals.

Through their performances and interactions, they experience personal growth and form meaningful connections with each other. The competition is not just about winning; it’s about self-discovery, healing, and the transformative power of music.

This is a love letter to music. Onda’s love for classical music shines through in her detailed and knowledgeable descriptions of the pieces played. Even if you aren’t familiar with classical music, you will appreciate the passion and expertise she brings to the subject. I immersed myself fully by playing all musical pieces that were mentioned throughout and even found a few gems I hadn’t heard of before.

Last few weeks have been overwhelmingly stressful on me, and I really wanted to read a feel good, positive book. This one checks that requirement. Onda’s writing style is a harmonious blend of lyrical prose, deep character exploration, and a palpable love for music. It’s a style that not only tells a story but also evokes the beauty and power of music itself. It can get cheesy positive with all the internal self affirmation dialogues, but I have no complaints.

Another Person by Kang Hwagil

4.0

People believe in a lot of things about you. Enough to make you second guess yourself.

This is a story of three women who happened to have spent a few years in common in the same university. Jina, who “people believe” is a snob, who aspires to study in a uni in Seoul, and who looks down at her mates in contempt. Sujin, who despite being a successful  and determined young woman, “people believe” will end up following her mother’s footsteps - the village slut. And Yuri, who “people believe” is a loner, attention seeker, and easy to get inside pants of.

Not all was well between the three of them, and it still isn’t. It’s been eleven years since they left uni, and an incident with one of them has brought them together, to confront each other and their past. And oh, one of the girl is dead. 

Rumors, gossips, lies, and misunderstanding play an important role in this book. Since we yo-yo between past and the present, certain sections might read juvenile. But that’s how a young college going mind works and sounds like. 

All three, victims of patriarchy, misogyny, gaslighting, sexual violence, gender based societal expectations, bullying, insecurity, and plain ego. Some of them start good. Some of them start repulsive. By the end of it all, you don’t know who to root for? Or if you even should - Who do you root for when all the contestants are prisoners of their own personal hells? There is no clear “good” person or a “bad” person. This is the world where discussing feminism makes men feminists and women feminazi. Where does a victim end and their victim complex begins?

It’s a heartbreaking book. The writing is simple, translation even simpler, and reads very contemporary. The aforementioned juvenile sounding sections definitely keeps it away from any literary award, but do you remember Kim Jiyoung born 1982? Or the more recent Jaded by Ela Lee? Similar topics, similar writing. If you liked those two, Another Person is for you.

I have come to a conclusion that Korean misogyny is right up there with their sunscreens, beauty standards, and boy bands. I prefer sunscreens from that list.

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

4.0

The story begins with a white missionary, Nathan Price, bringing his family - his wife and their 4 daughters - to the village of Kilanga, Congo from Georgia, USA. His mission? To spread the humble word of Lord Jesus in the village. To baptise every African kid there. To open the eyes these heathens against worshiping their false gods. To save them from being eternally damned in the hurtful fires of the beyond. What could go wrong.

Congo, meanwhile, is gearing up for a post colonial transformation of its own. And soon enough the family realises, the villagers with their hunger and poverty ain’t got no time for Independence and Jesus. 

Told from the PoV of the four daughters and their mother, this was for the bulk of it, a magnificent read. I might even call it a coming-of-age of a whole family in the face of adversity. They sashayed into the jungle aiming to change it all over to the Christian style. The jungle changed them right back. 

But…

It did lose me at the end, and reinforced my bias against the author. Despite this being my first Kingsolver, I somehow already had this image of the author as a very self righteous and a self important person, and the last couple of chapters in The Poisonwood Bible where Mama Kingsolver suddenly becomes an Africa expert (and a spokesperson, very cringe-worthy so), gave me the glimpse of it. The reason why I couldn’t, and still can’t, get my self to pick Demon Copperhead. (I am sorry, Kingsolver fans! I can’t help it, forgive me)

Still, an absolutely brilliant book. This reminded me of Kibogo. It also reminded me of Lonesome Dove. Don’t ask how, but it just did. A bit of Tomb of Sand even. 

But most importantly, it reminded me of Sharks In The Time of Saviours, which dare I say is a more beautiful and poetic version of The Poisonwood Bible (Here I am again, shamelessly reminding you to read that book, if you haven’t yet) 

Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson

5.0

I had promised myself not to pick up another coming of age novel for the next few months. And here I am, reviewing one.

This book was picked up because, it’s tiny (under 200 pages), written by American-African author (I recently had enough of South Asia), and published by W&N, an imprint that constantly brings me good but understated reads. Glad I didn’t keep my promise because this turned out to be a brilliant (a five star if you really want) read.

Set in Brooklyn, this is a multi-generational novel that explores the lives of two African American families connected by a teenage pregnancy. The novel begins with Melody’s 16th birthday ceremony, a significant event that serves as a gateway into the past and present lives of her family members. We get to know Melody, her ambitious mother Iris, her devoted father Aubrey, and her resilient grandparents Sabe and Po’Boy.

Small chapters, shifting perspectives, jumping back and forth in time, gave it that sweet waft of nostalgia and intimacy that I was really looking for. It kind of reminded me of two other favorite books of mine - Sharks In The Time Of Saviors, and Elizabeth Acevedo’s Clap When You Land. Both with raw yet lyrical and intimate prose, yo-yoing between narrators.

Each character is vividly drawn, with their own distinct voice and perspective. Melody’s journey from childhood to adolescence, Iris’s struggle with early motherhood and independence, Aubrey’s steadfast love for his daughter, his mother’s maternal instincts to protect her son at all costs, Iris’s mother carrying the weight of Tulsa massacre, are all portrayed with nuance and sensitivity.

My copy didn’t have the very familiar bright-parrot-green W seal on it and so after finishing the book, I was surprised to know that this is Women’s Prize Longlisted book. Not surprised as in “why, or how?”, but rather “Why I don’t remember it being talked about?”

P.S. If you have watched This Is Us, the young teenage father is a very Malik-like character. And I found that beautiful.

Brotherless Night by V.V. Ganeshananthan

3.0

Crazy thing about civil wars is the unpredictability. What is even more crazy is that when you look back at a concluded war, spread it, dissect it, study its timeline, all the events that happened leading to the outcome just seem predictable. Like “of course that had to happen for they took that step tsk tsk” type predictable. I am saying this because when the event depicted is not fictional, a book tends to read predictable to the reader. That gives you this sense of unease because YOU know the outcome, the characters don’t. And you just want to take them by the ear and make them change their one stupid decision that’s gonna cost them a lifetime. Stop you fools!

Brotherless Night is a retelling of a horrible event in Sri Lankan history narrated by a budding young doctors to be, Sashi. This was a good book, not gonna deny. It has been awarded. Plenty has been written about it. So I will spare you from a standard book review. Instead here are a few observations that prevented me from enjoying the book as much as I wanted to.

1. It reads like a memoir. If you had told me it was one and in fact written by Sashi herself, I would have accepted it. There were beautiful prose in the beginning before it just got overwhelmingly detailed. No inventiveness. Just dry report out. 
2. Sashi is a passive character, often acting or reacting due to others. Is the powerlessness a metaphor? Her constantly addressing us, asking us to understand. “You must understand.” Is Sashi supposed to be me? A helpless reader reliving history that won’t change no matter what decision I make, no matter which instruction I follow, or choose not to follow? Anyway, a helpless MC is good. But not for 350 pages.
3. There is one character who is always bearer of bad news. Every time he opens his mouth, he speaks of death. Happened so often, became a caricature. Another character is always late to arrive home. If this were taped in front of live audience, the character would have received a 15 seconds applause and jeering upon him entering the scene.
4. Ganeshananthan loves the word “incredulously”. 
5. Why would the audience of this book care about a testimonial from Celeste NG? Or the one who wrote Romantic Comedy? Bah!

The book made me appreciate Shyam Selvadurai’s Funny Boy more. Though a badly written book, a detached description of the same war from a young protagonists’s eyes who is battling his open internal wars is more appealing to me than a direct retelling of events, where the protagonist could be just easily replaced with another character living under similar circumstances. 

I can’t exactly tell where but “you must understand”, somewhere close to halfway mark, the book stopped being the book that it was. Not a dramatic shift, didn’t leave me disorienting, but felt the taste changing in my mouth, for worse.

Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai

2.0

This coming of age novel is set in the late 70s - a tumultuous period in Sri Lankan history, with escalating ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese and the Tamil. The rising mistrust between these communities is depicted through 6 interconnected stories, eventually leading to the 1983 riots.

Arjie, a hyperactive, puppy eyed kid who somehow happens to be at the right place at the right time, snooping, observing and narrating the grand adult world to us from knee height, is struggling with his sexual identity. His family’s reactions to his “funny” tendencies reflect the conservative family values and societal expectations regarding gender roles and the broader cultural attitudes towards non-conformity and homosexuality.

Each story focuses on different periods and events in Arjie’s life, deepening the understanding of Arjie’s character and the socio-political context of Sri Lanka. Arjie grows from a curious and innocent child into a more aware and resilient adolescent as the country descends into the hell of its own making.

I wanted to like this book since it is highly praised in the literary circle. But, nah. Didn’t impress me the least.

Disjointed stories, bland expendable characters, cliched dialogues. For a book market heavily for its LGBT theme, that whole arc mattered only in a couple of stories.

I find the omnipresence of the kid a lazy way to justify his awareness of the things, him being the narrator. Adults discussing marital affairs, murders, dead bodies with a 7year old? Why would you tag along a child to police station, or on a retreat with your secret lover, or to interrogate hostile villagers? WTF?

My biggest gripe is with the writing style. While the simple English deployed here is accessible, I found it extremely descriptive (then-this-happened-then-that-happened type), lacking any literary merit. Plus this annoying habit of addressing characters constantly by their names. One paragraph, 6 sentences, 4 instances of “Radha Aunty”. Four! Gets on my nerves.

A what could have been an excellent insight on civil war from a child’s POV, turned out to be a disappointment, marred by amateur writing and a lack of a better editor.

I need a break from coming-of-age stories now.