The Deep, by Rivers Solomon with Daveed Diggs, William Hutson and Jonathan Snipes

This is about a 3.6 rounded up. My opinion improved as I read some of the supporting material, and understood this as an origin myth. It reads like one and the protagonist is imperfect in the way that godlike originators often are. So many heroes are unflinching, or have misgivings but no real weaknesses. Yetu is sensitive and struggles under the pressure of being the Historian, and even runs away from her problems.

The pain of the Middle Passage is central to this book but is not extensively dwelled upon, though there are a few graphic descriptions. The writing style actually reminds me of Nnedi Okorafor, in that it is very direct and can seem a little stiff. It's a fine story, especially as an origin myth. Am glad I read it. 

Goodreads Review

Blood Is Another Word for Hunger, by Rivers Solomon

Do Not Look Back, My Lion by Alix E. Harrow

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This is a decent story, but only just a little interesting, and that interest is around how Harrow mixes and stirs hard and soft traits in men and women, and husbands and wives (any combination seems to be possible, though all the characters are cis-gendered). Rebellion against a society continually at war is very thoroughly done, but also very timely, so am not sorry I read it. It's a Hugo nominee for 2019, and will contend.



View all my reviews