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The Kingdom Of This World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1949

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Book Brief

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Alejo Carpentier

The Kingdom Of This World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1949
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Haiti • 18th century

Publication Year

1949

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Kingdom of This World, written by Alejo Carpentier and originally published in 1949, traces events in 20th-century Haiti, beginning in the French colonial period and stretching through the lifetime of its protagonist, Ti Noël. This novella is a work of dark magical realism and tells the story of two attempted rebellions against the French, the eventual reign of King Henri Christophe, the nation’s first Black king, and his downfall. The human costs of slavery (under white and Black slave-owners), as well as the hopes and beliefs of Africans living in Haiti during these regime changes, is shown from Ti Noël’s perspective.

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

7,531 ratings

64%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Alejo Carpentier's The Kingdom of This World masterfully intertwines magical realism with historical context, set against the backdrop of the Haitian Revolution. Critics praise its lyrical prose and rich cultural depiction, though some find the narrative structure challenging. Ultimately, it stands out for its vivid storytelling and profound thematic exploration.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Kingdom Of This World?

A reader who would enjoy The Kingdom of This World by Alejo Carpentier appreciates magical realism and historical narratives. They are fans of Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude and Isabel Allende's The House of the Spirits, enjoying richly detailed settings and the blend of myth and reality.

4.1

7,531 ratings

64%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Ti Noël

An enslaved worker of Monsieur Lenormand de Mézy, Ti Noël becomes involved in revolutionary activities and experiences shifts in power dynamics over time. He is a character who reflects the struggles and desires of Haiti's enslaved population.

A French plantation owner in Haiti, he embodies the typical attitudes and moral contradictions of his class. Despite the collapse of his fortunes, he is primarily focused on his personal gain and status.

Inspired by the real-life François Mackandal, Macandal is a powerful figure known for his knowledge of poisons and ability to harness the forces of nature and Vodou. He inspires resistance among the enslaved through his actions and teachings.

Based on a historical figure, Henri Christophe evolves from an inn owner to a leader in the Haitian Revolution and eventually becomes a king. His reign reflects the complexities and continuities of power dynamics following the revolution.

A character drawn from history, she is the wife of General Leclerc and experiences a cultural and personal transformation during her time in Haiti. Her interactions with Haitian culture and Vodou illustrate the intersection of colonial and local influences.

Pauline's loyal masseur, who later travels with royalty to Rome and becomes notable for his unique status due to his skin color. He is deeply affected by Pauline's death.

A commanding orator and leader from Jamaica who attempts to incite a violent revolution in Haiti. His efforts ignite significant upheaval among the enslaved population.

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Haiti • 18th century

Publication Year

1949

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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