Book Review: Death of the Author
This might actually be the best book I've ever read.
I have just now calmed down enough to put some of my thoughts to paper about this book. It will be gushingly positive.
Death of the Author, at it's most literal level, is a book about a young disabled woman named Zelu who writes an overnight sensation of a novel and then has to navigate her life with that fame clinging to her. Zelu is Nigerian-American with parents of two different lineages - Igbo and Yoruba - and a large family of siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins that appear throughout her journey. The book explores Nigerian-American culture and the disabled community as well as themes of belonging, love, and grief.
Writing a summary of this book is deliriously hard because there is so much beauty and nuance between the pages that simply cannot translate into the words of a review. I usually break my reviews down by basic book elements like plot, characters, pacing, etc., and I will cover a little bit of that here. But the exceptionalism of this story cannot really be captured by examining those things individually.
From the beginning, Zelu is a *character*. The book opens with her getting ready for her sister's wedding in Tobago. While there, Zelu quickly brings the reader into her confidence and begins sharing assorted family ties, dramas, ad cultural practives that she navigates while preparing for the ceremony. There is a huge group of characters that come up very quickly, but it never feels overwhelming. Each character immediately has their own voice and purpose in the story, and the reader feels that immediately.
After the release of Zelu's book, the chapters begin to flip between Zelu's perspective and the perspective of Ankara, the main character in the book Rusted Robots. Ankara's journey is separate from Zelu's with an entirely different cast of characters, but at no point do the transitions feel choppy or abrupt. Each chapter feels like it has a purpose and that it builds on the last, regardless of whose perspective you were previously in.
Truly the most magical part of this book was the author's writing style. This is my first book by Nnedi Okorafor, but I immediately feel that I need to start reading her entire backlog. Despite the copious sci-fi elements here, this story is deeply human, exploring themes of belonging and family while including automatic vehicles and robotic enhancements. Zelu herself has a unique and delightful voice (even when Zelu herself isn't being particiularly delightful) that is unlike any book I have read before, and her family is one of the most vibrant and alive that I have read in a long time.
Ultimately, Death of the Author is a book that is sure to stick with me. The beautiful writing and imagery has burned itself into my head and heart and I hope very much to see more adult works from this author going forward.
After finishing 'Death of the Author,' I found myself reflecting on what makes a book truly unforgettable and why so many readers are constantly on the lookout for their next 'must-read.' This novel by Nnedi Okorafor isn't just a story; it's an experience that deeply resonates and solidifies its place as a truly praised work. One aspect that truly sets this book apart is its vibrant exploration of Nigerian-American culture. Beyond just setting, Okorafor masterfully weaves in family dynamics, cultural practices, and the rich tapestry of Igbo and Yoruba traditions, making the reader feel intimately connected to Zelu’s world. From preparations for a sister's wedding in Tobago to descriptions of delicious Nigerian food, these details ground the narrative in an authentic and lively reality. It’s a beautiful portrayal that offers a window into a culture often underrepresented in mainstream fiction, making its themes of belonging and identity all the more powerful. Furthermore, the sensitive and authentic portrayal of disability is incredibly impactful. Zelu’s journey isn't defined by her disability but enriched by it, offering a perspective that is both nuanced and empowering. This thoughtful representation, coupled with the exploration of the disabled community's experiences, adds immense depth and practical wisdom to the narrative, reminding us of the diverse lives that shape our world. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft characters that feel real and multidimensional. The genius of Nnedi Okorafor's writing lies in her seamless blend of profound human themes with captivating sci-fi elements. While you might encounter automatic vehicles, robotic enhancements, and even futuristic "sci-fi cityscapes," these aren't just decorative. Instead, they serve as powerful metaphors, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human and connected. The dual narrative, flipping between Zelu's contemporary journey and Ankara's separate quest in 'Rusted Robots,' never feels disjointed. Each perspective builds on the last, deepening themes of love, grief, and the search for purpose within a technologically advanced yet deeply spiritual world. You truly feel like you're exploring a universe illuminated by "bright lights" of innovation and tradition. If you're seeking a book that breaks barriers, challenges perceptions, and leaves an indelible mark, 'Death of the Author' comes highly recommended. It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after the final page, prompting reflection and sparking conversations. It's a genuine treasure, and I wholeheartedly believe it's a book that deserves all the praise it receives, and then some!