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45 pages 1 hour read

Midnight Robber

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000

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Book Brief

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Nalo Hopkinson

Midnight Robber

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Toussaint • Distant Future

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Midnight Robber by Nalo Hopkinson, young Tan-Tan, living on the planet Toussaint, flees with her father Antonio to the alternate prison world New Half-Way Tree, where they encounter native douen and confront numerous hardships. As Tan-Tan grows, she takes on the mythic mantle of the Robber Queen, faces further dangers, and discovers her resilience and identity amidst perilous adventures. The novel includes themes of sexual abuse.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Emotional

Dark

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.2

4,051 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Midnight Robber by Nalo Hopkinson is praised for its rich, Caribbean-inspired world-building and compelling protagonist. Critics laud the inventive use of language and folklore. However, reactions to the pacing and narrative complexity are mixed, with some finding it slow or convoluted. Overall, it’s regarded as a unique and emotionally resonant read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Midnight Robber?

Nalo Hopkinson’s Midnight Robber would captivate readers who enjoy Afro-Caribbean folklore, science fiction, and strong female protagonists. Fans of Octavia Butler’s Kindred or Marlon James’s Black Leopard, Red Wolf will appreciate its rich cultural tapestry and imaginative world-building.

4.2

4,051 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Antonio

Mayor of Toussaint and Tan-Tan's father, Antonio is a complex character whose personal and moral struggles influence much of the story's progression.

Tan-Tan's mother and Antonio's first wife, known for her detachment and involvement in events that serve as a catalyst for the narrative.

Antonio's second wife, who becomes a significant antagonist in the story, driven by jealousy and resentment.

A native douen and the first of his kind encountered by Tan-Tan, known for his altruism and linguistic abilities.

A female douen who aids Tan-Tan, showcasing a contrast to human women with her actions and demeanor.

A young hinte who becomes a close friend to Tan-Tan, marked by her loyalty and platonic companionship.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Toussaint • Distant Future

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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