By: Stella Y., Grade 8
Author: R.F. Kuang
Genre: Dystopian
Age rating: 13-14+
Rating: 5/5
"War doesn't determine who is right. War determines who is left." For Rin, the orphan protagonist of The Poppy War, survival was the standard until she tested into the elite Singaurd Academy. For many, Singaurd was an expectation, a way to follow in their parents' footsteps; for Rin, Singaurd was an escape from her poor Rooster Province and an escape from the arranged marriage her aunt planned. However, even after testing into Singaurd, Rin faces prejudice from classmates who look down on her heritage. In an attempt to best her egotistical classmates, she discovers an aptitude for the ancient, near-mythical art of shamanism, the ability to commune with gods. As war breaks out with the Federation of Mugen, Rin finds her place in the Cike, a specialised unit of shamanic assassins, fighting in a brutal conflict between power and humanity.
The novel is a dark, military tale inspired by 20th-century Chinese history and mythology, focusing on themes of power, humanity, and revenge. Throughout the story, the constant battle between power and humanity is shown when the people of the Nikara Empire face a common enemy. Families are torn apart, and devastating losses follow. All the while, Rin struggles with the choice between vengeance and morality as she becomes deeply hurt and drawn into the war.
One of the main reasons this book drew me in was the fact that Rin wasn’t portrayed as a hero. Her faults were laid out on the page, even at times when she tried to be noble. Rin was not the most likeable character, which made her seem human and allowed readers to connect with the story. Furthermore, every choice the characters make in the story fits perfectly with the plot and leaves room for the unexpected. Having Rin as a morally grey character matches with her story and makes her a strong character. The emotional connection I felt reading The Poppy War was why it quickly rose to one of my top reads. I highly recommend this book to people who enjoyed The Hunger Games and Six of Crows and who love military fantasy.
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