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51 pages 1 hour read

The Shadow King

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Maaza Mengiste

The Shadow King

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

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ethiopia • 1930s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Shadow King by Maaza Mengiste is a historical novel set during Italy's 1935 invasion of Ethiopia. The narrative focuses on Hirut, a maid turned soldier, who plays a crucial role in resisting the invasion. The book explores themes of memory, identity, and the untold stories of African women in war.

Mysterious

Emotional

Melancholic

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.0

16,747 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Maaza Mengiste's The Shadow King offers a gripping narrative with rich historical detail about Ethiopia's fight against Italian invasion. The lyrical prose and vivid characterizations are praised, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's lauded for its powerful portrayal of overlooked female warriors, providing a fresh perspective on history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Shadow King?

Readers who appreciate The Shadow King by Maaza Mengiste would enjoy historical fiction with a focus on African history and strong female protagonists. Fans of Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie or The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich may find similar themes of resistance and resilience compelling.

4.0

16,747 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ethiopia • 1930s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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