My Book Review of Kindred

Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Phenomenal Historical Fiction

I was watching a podcast, the Cartier Family, and they mentioned this book. Their opic had been about slavery, and one of the hosts said he read this in college. It sparked my interest, causing me to immediately seek a copy.

I devoured this text. It moved me with its honesty and compelled me with its emotion. My own emotions were intense, riding the roller coaster from anger to heartbreak with Dana and Kevin.

I think the most impressive aspect of this book was the realism despite the time travel. It was phenomenal how relevant the truth of the human condition and conditioning was presented. The subtle manipulations are sometimes more effective than brutality. Mundane routines and boredom can be just as effective in creating fealty when you present it as a better option. Dana had moments where she had the classic victim ideology that said, “At least I have this instead of that.”

I see why the Cartier Family suggested this book. It is a great depiction of slavery without sensationalizing it. It doesn’t mitigate it, either. It is clear as to how it was possible and is possible for people to fall into and accept such atrocities. It illustrates the nuances that taints absolutes.

My soul is in pain for so many reasons. I’ll carry this story with me for the rest of my life. It is powerful because it is real, horrible, and important. It doesn’t matter what time you live in, you can and should do the right thing, especially when you are in the position to make a change for good!

View all my reviews