The Fifth Season : Book Review


Book review

Title: The Fifth Season
Author: N.K.Jemisin
Genre: Sci fi Fantasy 

The Fifth season is the first book of the Broken Earth trilogy series. It chronicles the story of three Oregene women at different stages of life. Each of their stories begin with a certain end or tragedy in their world. You have Essun whose husband murders their son and has run away with their daughter. There is Damaya who is taken away from her parents to undergo training to serve her empire. And there is Syenite who is sent on a particular mission. All these three stories are interwoven and these women encounter oppression and a lot of upheavals in their journey. Yet they rely on hope in order to thrive in a monstrous world. 

One thing that struck me about the book was the irony of the world called stillness. In contrast to its name there is a lot of upheaval-emotional and physical that takes place throughout the story. Jemisin's world building is deep and immersive and is one of the strongest aspects of her book. It is complex with several layers. In many ways, it draws parallels to our own human world that comprises class divide, social hierarchy, division of labour and caste system. Of course you cannot ignore the magic wielders that include the guardians, floating obelisks and stone eaters. The emotions are intense. You have love, hatred, violence, revenge and death. 

The author also experiments with point of view, alternating between second person to omniscient voice. It's very rare to see the usage of second person and this form offers a meta texture component to it. It's also interesting to note the presence of smaller worlds in this large setting of stillness and sub genres. The author touches upon issues of climate change, power dynamics, themes of betrayal and isolation. It takes a while to get into this world, its details and the numerous characters which may require your undivided attention and focus. There are times when the plot lags but the presence of an interesting twist keeps you glued to the pages. Another pleasant change is the presence of powerful women characters who showcase resilience and strength when faced with trauma or adversities. 

The Fifth season leaves you with the feeling of wanting more and gaining closure. It compels me to pick up the next book in the series

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