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R. F. Kuang

Yellowface

R. F. KuangFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023

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Book Brief

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R. F. Kuang

Yellowface

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Publication Year

2023

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

R. F. Kuang's contemporary novel Yellowface follows June Hayward, an aspiring author who, after her more successful friend Athena's sudden death, steals Athena's unpublished manuscript about the Chinese Labour Corps in World War I. June publishes the manuscript as her own, changing it to appeal to white audiences. As she faces growing scrutiny and accusations of plagiarism, June grapples with her guilt and identity. The novel contains depictions of racist stereotypes, violence, and sexual assault.

Challenging

Dark

Unnerving

Informative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

R. F. Kuang’s Yellowface garners mixed reactions, praised for its sharp critique of racial issues in publishing and its compelling narrative. However, some criticize its heavy-handed approach and underdeveloped secondary characters. Overall, it is seen as a bold, thought-provoking work that provokes essential conversations about cultural appropriation and authenticity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Yellowface?

Readers who would enjoy Yellowface by R. F. Kuang typically appreciate contemporary fiction that tackles issues of cultural appropriation, identity, and the publishing industry, much like Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng and The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz. They seek thought-provoking narratives with strong social commentary.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Publication Year

2023

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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