Book Review | Babel

When Robin Swift is left orphaned by a cholera outbreak in Canton, an Oxford professor takes him under his wing and raises him to become a translator for the British Empire. Robin studies for years at Oxford, but, when he’s approached by a shadowy organization to help steal from the university, he’s left torn between divided between his loyalties.

Babel by R.F. Kuang is a historical fantasy that brilliantly explores diaspora, the power of language, and the consequences of British imperialism.

Now, this book might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it certainly was mine. The story focuses a lot on the process of transition and questions what makes a good translation. The author herself is a translator, after all, and I really feel like her love and knowledge of language shines through here.

On top of that, the characters are morally grey--selfish and cowardly at times--but all the more human for it.

All in all, this was a deeply absorbing read that reminded of me what it’s like to truly sink into a good story again, and I cannot recommend it enough if you love dark academia.

Thank you, NetGalley and Harper Voyager, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Book Details:

Publication Date : August 23, 2022

Publisher : Harper Voyager

IBSN: ‎0063021420

Pages : 560

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