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46 pages 1 hour read

The Deep

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Rivers Solomon

The Deep

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

155

Format

Novella • Fiction

Setting

Underwater Communities • Non-specific future

Topic
Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Deep by Rivers Solomon, Yetu is the historian of a society of merfolk descended from pregnant enslaved women. Burdened by the collective memory of historical suffering, Yetu struggles to balance her duty to her people and her personal identity. Fleeing her role, she encounters two-legs and begins to rediscover herself, leading to a transformation in how her people handle their shared history. Themes of enslavement and historical trauma, racism, and mental health stressors are present.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Melancholic

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

38,131 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rivers Solomon's The Deep is praised for its imaginative storytelling and rich, evocative prose that deeply explores themes of memory, identity, and trauma. Critics highlight its unique premise and strong world-building, though some note that its intricate narrative can feel dense. Overall, it offers a powerful, thought-provoking read despite occasional complexities.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Deep?

The reader who would enjoy The Deep by Rivers Solomon likely appreciates thought-provoking, speculative fiction with rich world-building and multidimensional characters. Fans of Octavia Butler's Kindred and Nnedi Okorafor's Who Fears Death will find the novel's exploration of identity, memory, and cultural heritage engaging and impactful.

4.0

38,131 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

155

Format

Novella • Fiction

Setting

Underwater Communities • Non-specific future

Topic
Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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