Meet New Books
Meet New Books
Book Cover

Riot Baby

Save:
Find on Amazon

'Riot Baby' by Tochi Onyebuchi is a powerful novella that follows the lives of two Black siblings, Ella and Kev, as they navigate a world filled with oppression, violence, and systemic racism. Ella possesses special powers that allow her to see into the future, project her spirit, and bring destruction upon those who anger her. Kev, born during the 1992 LA riots, faces the harsh realities of being a Black man in a carceral state that dehumanizes and extracts value from Black bodies. The novel alternates between their perspectives, exploring themes of anger, injustice, and the struggle for a better future amidst dystopian elements and brutal realities.

The writing style of 'Riot Baby' is described as intense, gripping, and darkly beautiful. The author weaves a tale of brutality and injustice, drawing parallels to the real-world experiences of Black individuals while incorporating elements of science fiction and paranormal abilities. The narrative delves deep into the emotions and struggles of the characters, offering a poignant reflection on the current state of society and the potential for hope amidst despair.

Characters:

Ella and Kevin are complex characters shaped by their struggles with identity, systemic oppression, and personal challenges, embodying broader social themes.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lyrical and evocative, blending elements of stream of consciousness with intense emotional resonance, creating a powerful reading experience.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers on siblings Ella and Kevin, exploring their lives marked by violence and systemic racism, particularly through the lens of Ella's psychic abilities and Kevin's struggles within the justice system.

Setting:

Set against a backdrop of significant historical events, the narrative's locations highlight ongoing societal issues of racism and violence.

Pacing:

The pacing combines moments of reflection with urgency, creating an intense reading experience, though some readers found the transitions challenging.
BEFOREher Thing begins. Before even Kev is born. Before the move to Harlem. Ella on a school bus ambling through a Piru block in Compton and the kids across the aisle from her in blue giggling and thr...

Notes:

Riot Baby is a novella by Tochi Onyebuchi that explores the black American experience through the lives of two siblings, Ella and Kevin.
Ella has psychic powers, including telepathy and psychokinesis, which she refers to as her 'Thing'.
Kevin is born during the 1992 Los Angeles riots sparked by the acquittal of the police officers who beat Rodney King.
Ella's abilities grow as she navigates a world filled with systemic racism and violence against black individuals.
The novella alternates between Ella's third-person and Kevin's first-person perspectives, offering insight into their struggles.
Kevin faces societal pressures as a young black male, leading him into the criminal justice system where he is imprisoned.
Ella tries to master her powers while grappling with her anger at the injustices faced by her community.
The story highlights the impact of institutional violence and the long-term effects on black families.
Onyebuchi combines elements of science fiction with social commentary, focusing on themes of powerlessness and rage.
Riot Baby received recognition, including being a nominee for the Hugo Award and winning the World Fantasy Award.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic depictions of police violence, racial oppression, mental health struggles, and trauma.

From The Publisher:

Riot Baby

Ratings (4)

Loved It (1)
It Was OK (3)

Reader Stats (18):

Read It (4)
Want To Read (11)
Not Interested (3)
 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.