40 pages • 1 hour read
At Night All Blood Is Black: A Novel
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Book Brief
At Night All Blood Is Black
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018145
Novel • Fiction
France • World War I
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In At Night All Blood Is Black, Alfa Ndiaye, a Senegalese soldier in WWI, is haunted by guilt after witnessing the prolonged death of his friend Mademba Diop. Choosing to avenge his friend, Alfa becomes consumed by violence, disemboweling enemy soldiers and collecting their hands. Initially celebrated as brave, he is soon feared, leading to his psychological breakdown and an increasingly erratic quest for redemption. The narrative explores war's psychological trauma and the impact of colonialism.
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
27,106 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
David Diop's At Night All Blood Is Black, translated by Anna Moschovakis, presents a harrowing exploration of war and its psychological toll. Critics praise its lyrical prose and compelling portrayal of trauma. However, some find its graphic violence overwhelming. Despite this, the novel’s emotional depth and unique perspective on postcolonial experiences remain impactful.
Who Should Read At Night All Blood Is Black?
Readers who appreciated the psychological intensity of The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien or the haunting introspection of All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque would enjoy At Night All Blood Is Black. It is ideal for those interested in war narratives that explore complex human emotions and the African experience in WWI.
27,106 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mademba Diop
Mademba Diop
Alfa's childhood friend and foil, remembered for his gentle nature and academic prowess. He enlists in World War I, driven by loyalty to France, and plays a central role in Alfa's memories and motivations.
Jean-Baptiste
Jean-Baptiste
A white African soldier and Alfa's close friend, known for his trickster personality and pranks involving enemy remains. His friendship provides Alfa with support following Mademba's death.
Ibrahima Seck
Ibrahima Seck
A high-ranking African soldier who serves as a translator, marked by his Croix de Guerre medal. He represents a possible future for Alfa, deeply integrated into the colonial military structure.
145
Novel • Fiction
France • World War I
2018
Adult
18+ years
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