Wow. What a read. I got this from my sister coincidentally around the time I added Sorrowland by Rivers Solomon to my TBR. I thought it a good introduction to the writer and my sister thought I would like it so I decided to give it a shot.

The story introduces the myth of the wajinru, a race of deep sea creatures with an immensely complex and profound history with the ocean and the continent of Africa, in all of its people's beauty and pain. This history is collected through generations by 'historians' like Yetu, the main character, who hold all of the memories, lives, loves and deaths of her people in their minds to spare the rest of the wajinru the weight. The role is too painful for her so one day she sheds the load, and escapes to the surface, to a world and a version of herself seperate from her people.

The story telling is gorgeous, and the bond Yetu builds with Oori, a land-dwelling recluse like herself, is equally beautifully crafted.
But the most poignant element to this tale is the tender potrayals of African community, family and culture, in all of its glory. The little commonalities we share with different groups in the diaspora, the wajinru's memory paralleling the weight and pressure culture and tradition can put on you. The ending felt so earned and so right, and leaves you feeling hopeful about finding a balance between loving and being loved by your people as well as loving yourself.

Not to mention intersex, queer and neurotypical representation in this is woven in so seamlessly as well, they're essential parts of Rivers' and Yetu's story.

All in all, a stellar read I wish was longer but also find perfect as is. Definite recommendation 🐚💙💜