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The Fifth Season

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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N. K. Jemisin

The Fifth Season

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin follows three intertwined narratives of a woman named Essun, revealed in different life stages as Damaya, Syenite, and her present self as she strives to rescue her daughter in a world plagued by seismic instability and societal exploitation of those with the power to control the earth. The novel addresses topics such as systemic oppression, child loss, and physical violence.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Fantastical

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

323,800 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

N. K. Jemisin's The Fifth Season is widely acclaimed for its imaginative world-building, diverse characters, and intricate plotting. Critics praise its unique narrative structure and exploration of social themes. However, some readers find the pace slow and the complexity overwhelming. Overall, it is celebrated for its originality and depth, cementing Jemisin's place in contemporary fantasy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Fifth Season?

Fans of intricate world-building and socially conscious narratives will find The Fifth Season compelling. Readers who enjoy the complexity of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire and the deep societal critiques in Octavia Butler’s works will be particularly drawn to Jemisin’s masterful tale.

4.4

323,800 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Damaya/Syenite/Essun

The protagonist, who undergoes significant transformation and identity changes throughout the story. Her orogenic abilities influence her journey and relationships.

A highly powerful orogene with ten rings, known for his cynical demeanor and critical views of the Fulcrum. He plays a key role in the protagonist's development.

A mysterious stone eater who accompanies Essun and appears as a young boy. His true nature and powers unfold as the story progresses.

Damaya's Guardian, who exhibits both kindness and violence in his treatment of her. His role is crucial in her early development and challenges.

A transgender woman knowledgeable in scientific matters, who shares a past connection with the protagonist. Her unique perspective and knowledge contribute to the story's exploration of societal norms.

A charismatic and bold man from Meov, involved in a polyamorous relationship with Syenite and Alabaster. His leadership and empathy are key aspects of his character.

The son of Syenite and Alabaster, possessing significant orogenic potential from a young age. He holds familial ties that impact the narrative.

Essun’s husband, whose discovery of his son's nature leads to dramatic consequences. His actions drive a significant portion of the plot.

The children of Essun and Jija, whose orogenic abilities are pivotal to the story's events. Their fates motivate Essun's actions.

A compassionate doctor from Tirimo with a sympathetic stance towards orogenes. His presence provides emotional support to the protagonist.

An orogene leader of the comm at Castrima, remarkable for her confidence and innovative use of orogeny. Her leadership style is unconventional in the setting.

The headman of Tirimo, whose leadership is marked by a quick response to crises. He has personal reasons for sympathizing with orogenes.

A fellow orogene at the Fulcrum with self-control issues. Her interactions highlight the challenges faced by orogenes during training.

An older grit whose involvement in a conspiracy impacts Damaya. His character represents some of the internal conflicts within the Fulcrum.

A fellow trainee at the Fulcrum who becomes entangled in a scheme against Damaya. His circumstances illustrate the struggles orogenes face in maintaining their personal connections.

An elderly orogene with a supervisory role at the Fulcrum, known for her professional demeanor. She represents the standard expectations of orogenes within the organization.

A deputy governor in Allia with a disdainful attitude towards orogenes. Her interactions with Alabaster and Syenite evoke tensions between characters.

A lieutenant governor of Allia, noted for her courteous approach and concern for her community's welfare. Her demeanor contrasts with that of her colleague Asael.

A Guardian with the dangerous ability to kill rogues using his abilities. His presence poses a significant threat to orogene characters.

A Guardian involved in a mysterious incident, connected to a central element in the story. Her interactions with Damaya reveal hidden aspects of the world.

A stone eater with an interest in Alabaster, supporting him in crucial moments. Her enigmatic presence adds another layer to the mystical elements of the story.

Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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