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A review by laurenleigh
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
dark
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Everyone keeps using the word “sharp” to describe this book, and I understand why. I’m so intrigued by how Kuang wrote this first person narrator who is so deeply unlikable. And yet I wanted to keep reading. Partly because I knew her downfall had to be inevitable, but I also think there’s an uncomfortable recognition that any artist might see in this narrator. Everyone wants that big break, their creative work to finally be acknowledged. Of course, her methods are reprehensible. This book is so meta, it’s almost kind of weird that the publishing industry is lauding it so highly. Like when someone laughs along at an insult hurled their way in a deflection attempt. I definitely think the hype is deserved!