A review by booktalkwithkarla
Babel by R.F. Kuang

challenging dark informative medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

After hearing about this book from so many I bought it and it languished on my shelf until my book club chose it. The setting of Oxford and study of languages was the original draw for me and turned out to be my favorite parts of the novel. I don’t read fantasy fiction typically. 

R.F. Kuang is an incredible writer and this is a compelling story. She is gifted and brilliant. It’s hard to imagine how her mind works and how she created Babel. The evidence is in my hands and it’s massive. There were parts of where I lost focus, then would be drawn back into the story by some fascinating etymology. I found the matched pairs and translation sections the most interesting.

I recommend this for word nerds and fantasy readers. Looking forward to talking about the themes of colonialism, loyalty, friendship, slavery, ethics, and class. There’s so much to discuss, making this a fantastic read for book clubs.