Image source: Wikipedia
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Book Title: Yellowface
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Authors: R. F. Kuang
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Year Published: May 2023 Please note: As Yellowface was recently released, its copyright must expire before a legal and free PDF version is available.
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Goodreads Rating: 3.79/5
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Availability: Buy the PDF from Google Play Books.
After you have purchased Yellowface, follow these instructions to download it from Google Play Books in PDF format:
- Click on the "Books" tab at the top of your screen.
- Click on the "Your Library" link beneath that.
- Find your book and click the icon with three dots beneath the cover image.
- Select "Export" and then "Export as PDF".
How to Read Yellowface PDF
Embark on an electrifying voyage through the captivating narrative of "Yellowface." Explore the depths of identity, belonging, and the transformative force of self-discovery. Dive into the accompanying PDF for an unforgettable odyssey of resilience, acceptance, and the extraordinary quest for truth and understanding.
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Our Review of Yellowface
R.F. Kuang’s "Yellowface" is a gripping satire that tackles plagiarism, cultural appropriation, and the dark underbelly of the publishing industry. At its core, the novel follows June Hayward, a writer who, struggling to maintain relevance, makes a series of questionable decisions that ultimately lead her to steal a manuscript from her deceased friend, Athena Liu. What unfolds is a chaotic journey that drags June deeper into a web of deceit, guilt, and self-justification.
The brilliance of "Yellowface" lies in its portrayal of June as a complex and morally ambiguous character. She’s not a villain in the traditional sense; rather, she’s someone who takes advantage of an opportunity, even if it’s ethically dubious. Readers are lured into understanding her motivations, which makes the story all the more unsettling. Kuang masterfully crafts June’s narrative, making her both relatable and repulsive, a duality that keeps readers hooked as they watch her spiral out of control.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its sharp commentary on race, identity, and cultural ownership. Kuang doesn’t shy away from exploring these themes, making Yellowface not just a story about plagiarism, but also a critique of how the publishing industry and society at large exploit and commodify marginalized voices. The novel sheds light on the uncomfortable truths of who gets to tell certain stories and why, adding depth and relevance to the narrative.
The novel’s tone is unapologetically satirical, with moments that will make readers squirm. Kuang’s writing is laced with dark humor, especially in the way she depicts June’s justifications and increasingly erratic behavior. It’s a story that makes you laugh, wince, and think, all at the same time—a testament to Kuang’s ability to tackle heavy subjects with a deft touch.
While the first half of "Yellowface" excels in balancing June’s appeal and repulsion, the latter half shifts gears as June becomes more consumed by guilt and paranoia. This transition from subtlety to intensity might jar some readers, but it’s a deliberate move that mirrors June’s descent into madness. It’s a shift that’s both disturbing and captivating, underscoring the story’s themes of identity and consequence.
What makes "Yellowface" worth reading is its fearless exploration of uncomfortable territory. It’s a novel that refuses to be tidy or simple, offering no easy answers. Instead, it challenges readers to confront their own biases and consider the complexities of authorship and authenticity. With its engaging narrative and biting social commentary, "Yellowface" is a novel that lingers long after the final page, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates stories that push boundaries and spark conversation.
We recommend adding "Yellowface" to your reading list. Once you've turned the final page, take a moment to explore our top BookTok recommendations. You might discover your next great read!