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55 pages 1 hour read

Zoo City

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Lauren Beukes

Zoo City

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

385

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Johannesburg • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In an alternate Johannesburg, South Africa, people with animal familiars that symbolize their criminal pasts gain magical abilities. Zinzi December, accompanied by a Sloth, locates lost things to repay debts from her days as a junkie. Her routine derails when she’s hired to find a missing pop star, uncovering a dangerous conspiracy that forces her to confront criminals manipulating the powers of animal familiars for sinister purposes. The book includes depictions of drug addiction and violence.

Mysterious

Gritty

Dark

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.7

11,950 ratings

59%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Zoo City by Lauren Beukes is praised for its imaginative world-building and gritty narrative. Reviewers commend its unique take on urban fantasy and compelling social commentary. However, some criticize its pacing and complexity, finding parts convoluted. Overall, it stands out for originality and thought-provoking themes, appealing to fans of genre-blending fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Zoo City ?

Readers who enjoy Zoo City by Lauren Beukes often appreciate gritty urban fantasy infused with noir elements. Fans of Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere and China Miéville's Perdido Street Station will likely be drawn to its unique blend of dark, magical realism and socio-political commentary. The novel's vivid, imaginative setting appeals to those intrigued by alternative realities intertwined with modern societal issues.

3.7

11,950 ratings

59%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Zinzi December

A former lifestyle journalist turned finder of lost objects, she has a complex past involving drug debt and personal loss. She lives with her boyfriend in Zoo City and navigates morally challenging situations.

A Congolese refugee and Zinzi’s boyfriend, known for his scar tissue from a violent past. He is a security guard searching for his lost family while living in Zoo City.

A music producer with a reputation marred by past scandals and an unusual attachment seen only by Zinzi. He manages the pop duo iJusi and harbors secrets related to his animal familiar.

Half of the iJusi pop duo, this teenage boy is optimistic and harbors dreams beyond his current fame. Known for his charm and sweet personality.

The other half of the iJusi pop duo, distinguished by her bright, mod-rock style. She's known for her independence and wild behavior.

Zinzi’s debt collector and handler for her phishing emails, with a muscular build and charming appearance. He often tries to increase Zinzi's debt but occasionally assists her.

Part of Maltese and Marabou Procurements, known for his stylish appearance and Maltese poodle. He works alongside Amira in their business ventures.

A thin, androgynous woman with a chemotherapy-style haircut, who co-runs Maltese and Marabou Procurements. She's linked to finding murder scenes and has a Marabou stork familiar.

An editor at a men’s magazine, he has a history with Zinzi involving drugs and personal exploitation. They reconnect during Zinzi's investigation.

Book Details
Pages

385

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Johannesburg • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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