stonebender | (no subject)

Kindred by Octavia E. Butler

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Contrary to the synopsis from Goodreads, I wouldn't call Kindred Science Fiction. I'd call it Fantasy certainly or Speculative Fiction if you like. However this is a minor quibble. A contemporary African-American woman (well, from 1976, but contemporary to the story) is called or somehow transferred from 1976 to 1815. Her life appears to be connected to an ancestor slave-owner. Who can, inexplicably, call her to his time and place when he is in danger. To survive she must find a way to act like she's from this time and place. She must act like other enslaved people of color of the time. I won't go into any more detail except to say that this is an amazing story. As long as you are not overwhelmed by the subject matter of slavery and its realistic depiction the story is simple to read, but the author delivers an emotionally complex story that talks about all the ways owning people infects everyone involved. Nothing is simple about the reactions and actions in this story. Definitely worth anyone's time.

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Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

An exceptionally chewy story, and it was even better twenty years later on re-read, since my own knowledge of slavery and its impact had increased.

I'm embarrassed to admit that it's my first time reading any Butler. I Intend to fix this problem as soon as I can. Going on to Dawn by her right now. Considering how long I've read science fiction and fantasy I have some pretty big holes in my reading list.

It's all good, but The Parable of the {Talents|Sower} are the best.

I thought it was wonderful. It's the kind of book I wish I'd read when it came out; I was 10 in 1976 and it would have enchanted and enriched me.

Completely and utterly agree.

Thanks for the recommendation, have bought it and hope to read it soon. My reading habit has suffered since retiring, as I feared it might. There really is no reason why I shouldn’t indulge in it, but it was something I mainly did on my commute or in work breaks, or when internet access was not available. Must do better.