The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is a fantasy novel following the story of a young peasant girl, Runin Fang, as she gives up everything to rise from poverty and go to a respectable school, only to be faced with discrimination (being dark-skinned among her pale companions), and a vicious war that seems to have no end in sight. The fantasy aspect of it all lies entirely in the gods and the powers they grant to a select few, although the sacrifices necessary to achieve such strength are ruthless.
The Poppy War was enjoyable to me as someone who is very adjacent to everything historical—I would even go as far as to call it an allegory for Chinese history. It is definitely for those who like history. However, since it is very heavy on war, going into graphic detail about the atrocities that accompany it, I would recommend checking out the trigger warning list before reading. All in all, though morbid, The Poppy War is quite interesting, with a truly powerful and complex female protagonist.
Reviewed by Alice, Grade 10
Glendale Central Library
Comments
This book is really intense and not what you might expect at first. It starts off feeling like a typical school story, but then becomes much darker and more serious. I liked how Rin is flawed and makes tough decisions, which makes her feel real, but sometimes her choices can be frustrating. The world-building is strong, and the themes about war and power really make you think. I would recommend it to people who like darker fantasy and don’t mind heavy topics.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 11
Glendale Central Library