A well-written, utterly original, and captivating science fiction novella. I am fascinated by the world that Okorafor has created, with its diverse human and alien populace. So much science fiction has to do with war lately, and while this novella doesn’t lack carnage and conflict it is fundamentally about acceptance and understanding. I also liked how the focal point of the novel is what boils down to a first-generation student on her way to attend a university.
I loved Binti as a protagonist, and was moved by the conflict between her dedication to her family and culture and her desire to study at Oomza University. I also found the concept of “treeing” and her mathematical trances fascinating. Okwu, too, was a striking character as was his alien race. I enjoyed as Binti’s slow understanding and acceptance of him and his people mirrored the readers own. My only issue was how rapidly the murder of Binti’s classmates was forgotten, it felt somewhat unrealistic even in the light of the diffusing tensions between the university and the Meduse. Regardless, l am highly anticipating the next book!
Emma Cate Reads 