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.
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.
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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.
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