60 pages • 2 hours read
Yellowface
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
United States • Contemporary
2023
Adult
18+ years
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follows June Hayward, an aspiring author who, after her more successful friend Athena's sudden death, steals Athena's unpublished manuscript about the Chinese Labour Corps in World War I. June publishes the manuscript as her own, changing it to appeal to white audiences.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
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 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.
336
Novel • Fiction
United States • Contemporary
2023
Adult
18+ years
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