50 pages • 1 hour read
Parable of the Talents
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Book Brief
365
Novel • Fiction
California • 2030s
1998
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler follows Lauren Oya Olamina, the founder of the Earthseed movement, as she struggles to spread her teachings amid a dystopian America plagued by violence and religious persecution. Alternating between the perspectives of Lauren, her daughter Larkin, and her partner Bankole, the novel chronicles the rise of Earthseed and Lauren's quest to reunite with her abducted daughter. Descriptions of enslavement, violence, and trauma are present in the book.
Dark
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
73,540 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler is an evocative sci-fi novel praised for its visionary narrative and profound social commentary. Reviewers commend Butler's complex characters and gripping plot. However, some criticize the pacing and occasional bleakness. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking work that challenges readers to reflect on societal issues.
Who Should Read Parable of the Talents?
Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler appeals to readers who enjoy dystopian narratives with strong, complex characters and social commentary. Fans of The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood or 1984 by George Orwell will appreciate Butler's exploration of power, religion, and resilience in a fractured society.
73,540 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Larkin Olamina/Asha Vere Alexander
Larkin Olamina/Asha Vere Alexander
A secondary protagonist and narrator, Larkin learns about her mother through reading her writings and harbors feelings of abandonment towards her. She is intelligent and creative, becoming a scholar and writer who explores themes important to her mother and Earthseed.
Taylor Franklin Bankole
Taylor Franklin Bankole
An important secondary character and Lauren's romantic interest, Bankole is a significantly older Black man who works as a doctor. He is caring and intelligent and shares common values with Lauren, experiencing happiness as he becomes a father.
Marcus “Marc” Duran
Marcus “Marc” Duran
Lauren’s brother, who serves as a foil to her, highlighting their differing responses to shared experiences of hardship. Marcus values order, stability, and control, leading him to different beliefs and leadership styles compared to Lauren.
365
Novel • Fiction
California • 2030s
1998
Adult
18+ years
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