Yellowface

Author: R F Kuang

Genre: Literary Fiction

Traits: Satirical, Reflective, Critical

Language: English 

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    Yellowface by R F Kuang is a sharp and provocative novel that explores the complexities of cultural appropriation, racism, and the cutthroat world of publishing. The story centers on June Hayward, a white, struggling author who envies the success of her more accomplished friend, Athena Liu, a celebrated Asian-American writer. When Athena dies unexpectedly June seizes the opportunity to steal Athena’s unfinished manuscript, edits it, and publishes it as her under her new pen name “Juniper Song”. And as expected the book was a hit and suddenly June’s dream of living Athena’s life came to life. As she enters literary stardom, she grapples with guilt and increasing backlash from readers and critics who challenge her right to tell a story rooted in another culture. She is constantly bullied and accused on social media, Twitter and Goodreads. And now for the rest of her life, she races to salvage her career and reputation, resorting to lies and manipulation.

    Most of the time you’ll feel disgusted by the protagonist’s casual racism and vague justifications for her actions. Through this book, you are pushed into uncomfortable self-reflection, confronting your own biases about privilege and authorship, while feeling deep empathy and sorrow for the silenced voices that are exploited and erased in the literary world.

    If you're in the mood for something thought-provoking and sharp, especially if you're looking to engage with social complexities and want a peek into the literary world complications DO NOT MISS OUT ON “YELLOWFACE”. 

R/W Ratings : 8/10

Goodreads rating: 3.83/5

(As on date of publishing of post)

R/W by: Shikha Lal