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A review by emilyhays
Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor
4.5
I haven't written an actual review in quite some time, but I feel like this needs it.
I think as a white person, in particular, some research and additional information is needed when reading afrofuturism. There is a lot attached to it that I just don't have knowledge of. So after reading this, I googled "Sankofa," and wow am I glad I did.
"Sankofa is an African word from the Akan tribe in Ghana. The literal translation of the word and the symbol is “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.” - https://www.berea.edu/cgwc/the-power-of-sankofa/
Wow, Okorafor really encapsulated this meaning within the narrative of Remote Control.
Sankofa, our main character, is forever changed by a traumatic event, and abandons what she knows to go on a quest, seeking clarity and closure for her trauma. And, [spoilers]when she finds it, she doesn't feel these things. She must journey back to where it all began to truly find closure. A story that fully explores the meaning of the word Sankofa.
If you're looking for a short, tense, emotional scifi read, this is the one. And don't forget to take the time to read up on the history of what your reading to truly "get it."
I think as a white person, in particular, some research and additional information is needed when reading afrofuturism. There is a lot attached to it that I just don't have knowledge of. So after reading this, I googled "Sankofa," and wow am I glad I did.
"Sankofa is an African word from the Akan tribe in Ghana. The literal translation of the word and the symbol is “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.” - https://www.berea.edu/cgwc/the-power-of-sankofa/
Wow, Okorafor really encapsulated this meaning within the narrative of Remote Control.
Sankofa, our main character, is forever changed by a traumatic event, and abandons what she knows to go on a quest, seeking clarity and closure for her trauma. And, [spoilers]
If you're looking for a short, tense, emotional scifi read, this is the one. And don't forget to take the time to read up on the history of what your reading to truly "get it."