46 pages • 1 hour read
The Deep
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Book Brief
155
Novella • Fiction
Underwater Communities • Non-specific future
2019
Adult
18+ years
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
38,131 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
38,131 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
155
Novella • Fiction
Underwater Communities • Non-specific future
2019
Adult
18+ years
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