Book Summary
In “The City We Became,” Jemisin weaves a contemporary fantasy tale rooted in the heart of New York City. The premise is that great cities, upon reaching a certain age or prominence, come alive in the form of a human avatar. In New York City’s case, it doesn’t manifest as one, but six avatars, one for each borough and one for the city as a whole. As the avatars grapple with their newfound identities and powers, they also face an eldritch antagonistic force that threatens to destroy their city. The enemy, personified as “The Woman in White,” represents homogeneity and gentrification, systematically erasing the city’s diversity and vibrancy.
Author Intro
N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin is an acclaimed science fiction and fantasy author, lauded for her imaginative narratives, profound thematic explorations, and representation of diverse cultures and identities. Jemisin is notably the first author to win the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row, for her groundbreaking “Broken Earth” trilogy. With “The City We Became,” she begins a new series, bringing her unique and evocative voice to an urban fantasy setting.
Book Reviews
“The City We Became” is a love letter to New York City, brimming with an intricate understanding of its soul. Jemisin’s innovative concept of cities as sentient entities and her personification of New York’s boroughs is a testament to her boundless imagination. With an engaging plot, diverse and well-realized characters, and themes exploring identity, unity, and gentrification, this book sets a new standard for urban fantasy. It’s a unique, spellbinding read from start to finish.
N.K. Jemisin’s “The City We Became” combines urban fantasy with sociopolitical commentary, delivering a narrative as vibrant and diverse as New York City itself. Each borough’s avatar is distinct, embodying the unique cultural nuances and histories of their respective regions. While the book brims with thrilling confrontations and supernatural elements, it also makes salient observations about gentrification, systemic racism, and the city’s identity. Although the pacing can be uneven, Jemisin’s captivating prose and the inventive premise keep the readers engaged.
In “The City We Became,” Jemisin presents an emotionally resonant story, encapsulating the spirit of New York City in her characters. The borough avatars, each with their struggles, strengths, and diverse backgrounds, tug at the heartstrings, and their fight for their city stirs the soul. Amid the fantasy and conflict, it’s the story’s inherent hope, unity, and celebration of diversity that leaves a lasting impact.
“The City We Became” is an ambitious venture into urban fantasy by N.K. Jemisin. Her personification of New York City and its boroughs is a refreshing take, and her commentary on social issues is potent. However, the narrative is somewhat hampered by its pacing, with a slow start and convoluted middle. Additionally, readers unfamiliar with New York City may struggle to fully appreciate the depth of the borough characters and their individual cultural nuances. Despite these issues, Jemisin’s imaginative storytelling and thematic depth offer a compelling read.
