WRITTEN BY: R. F. Kuang
NARRATED BY: Helen Laser
June Hayward and Athena Liu are two writers with divergent fates in the literary world. Athena’s success is cut short by a tragic event, witnessed by June, who then controversially adopts Athena’s last manuscript as her own work. Under the pseudonym Juniper Song, the book, detailing the struggles of Chinese laborers during the Great War, becomes a bestseller, sparking debate and backlash over cultural representation.
“Yellowface” has garnered acclaim, and though I’m new to Kuang’s writing, her reputation as a scholar and translator shines through in this novel. The book delves into complex themes such as plagiarism, personal relationships, societal expectations, mental health, and cultural appropriation, all wrapped in a narrative that’s both intellectually stimulating and darkly humorous.
Helen Laser’s narration adds another layer of engagement, making it a compelling listen. This provocative and insightful novel is a must-read, or rather, a must-listen for those drawn to stories that challenge and entertain.
