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160
Novel • Fiction
Haiti • 18th century
1949
Adult
18+ years
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
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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.
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.
7,531 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Monsieur Lenormand de Mézy
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.
Macandal
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.
King Henri Christophe
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.
Pauline Bonaparte
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.
Soliman
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.
Bouckman the Jamaican
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.
160
Novel • Fiction
Haiti • 18th century
1949
Adult
18+ years
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