Meet New Books
Book Cover

Shaman

Save:
Find on Amazon

Who Would Like This Book:

If you love detailed, immersive historical fiction, "Shaman" is a fascinating plunge into Ice Age life. Kim Stanley Robinson paints a vivid picture of a prehistoric tribe, focusing on the coming-of-age journey of Loon, a young apprentice shaman. The daily realities - hunting, crafting, storytelling, and connection to nature - come alive through Robinson's meticulous research and lush descriptions. Fans of survival stories, anthropology, or atmospheric, character-driven narratives will especially enjoy this one. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to walk in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors, this book delivers.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found the pacing slow, particularly in the first half, with long stretches of detailed descriptions about ancient life that sometimes overshadow the plot. If you prefer fast-paced stories or strong, twisty storylines, you might feel bogged down by the novel’s focus on daily survival and rituals. There are also some explicit passages and earthy aspects true to the era, which may not appeal to everyone. If you’re seeking the typical page-turning action or fantastical elements, this isn’t that kind of prehistoric read.

A beautifully researched, earthy coming-of-age tale that drops you right into the Stone Age - perfect for those who savor rich detail and a slower, more reflective journey.

About:

'Shaman' by Kim Stanley Robinson is a novel set during the Ice Age, following the journey of Loon, a young man destined to become the tribe's Shaman. The story delves into the harsh realities of survival in a primitive era, detailing Loon's initiation rites, his struggles, relationships, and the challenges he faces in a world where Neanderthals are not just enemies but fellow travelers. The narrative provides insights into the daily life, rituals, and beliefs of early humans, while also exploring themes of human resilience, survival, and the importance of stories and myths in shaping our history.

The writing style of 'Shaman' is described as detailed and immersive, with a focus on the protagonist's perspective that shifts occasionally to other entities like the wind or animals, providing a magical sense to the world. The novel captures the essence of prehistoric life through vivid descriptions of the environment, social interactions, and the characters' experiences, offering a realistic portrayal of survival in a challenging and unforgiving era.

Characters:

The characters are relatable and embody human qualities, each encountering personal growth and challenges in their prehistoric context.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is detailed and immersive, focusing on the environment and the characters' experiences, though it can be slow and laden with description.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers on Loon's transformation from a boy to a shaman amid the harsh realities of Ice Age life, exploring themes of survival and humanity's connections.

Setting:

The story is steeped in the Ice Age setting, emphasizing survival against a backdrop of wilderness.

Pacing:

The novel's pacing is uneven, with a slow build-up that contrasts sharply with more dynamic events in the second half.
This is what Thorn would say whenever he was doing something bad himself. Object to whatever it was and he would pull up his long gray braids to show the mangled red nubbins surrounding his earholes. ...

Notes:

Shaman is set during the Ice Age and follows a boy named Loon becoming a shaman.
The story starts with Loon's initiation, where he must survive alone in the wilderness for two weeks.
Robinson's writing focuses on the creativity and humanity of ancient people, highlighting their daily survival tasks.
Nature plays a significant role in the novel, with animals depicted almost as characters themselves.
Shamanism in the book is portrayed more as storytelling rather than mystical practices.
The novel emphasizes the continuity and connection between humanity's past and present.
Readers noted that the pacing can be slow, particularly in the first half, filled with rich descriptions of life.
The interactions between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals are depicted with a mix of cooperation and mistrust.
The importance of passing knowledge to younger generations is highlighted through Loon's relationship with his mentor, Thorn.
Despite being a historical novel, readers found it relatable to modern human experiences.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Medium content warnings are applicable due to mentions of sexual content, survival themes, and intense situations relating to prehistoric life.

Has Romance?

The book contains a medium level of romance, primarily involving Loon's relationships with female characters through the story.

From The Publisher:

Kim Stanley Robinson, the New York Times bestselling author of science fiction masterworks such as the Mars trilogy and 2312, has, on many occasions, imagined our future. Now, in Shaman, he brings our past to life as never before.

There is Thorn, a shaman himself. He lives to pass down his wisdom and his stories - to teach those who would follow in his footsteps.

There is Heather, the healer who, in many ways, holds the clan together.

There is Elga, an outsider and the bringer of change.

And then there is Loon, the next shaman, who is determined to find his own path. But in a world so treacherous, that journey is never simple - and where it may lead is never certain.

Shaman is a powerful, thrilling and heartbreaking story of one young man's journey into adulthood - and an awe-inspiring vision of how we lived thirty thousand years ago.

Reader Stats (11):

Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (9)
Not Interested (1)
 
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.