"The City We Became" by N.K. Jemisin is a thrilling urban fantasy novel that explores the idea of cities as living entities with their own personalities and struggles. The story follows six diverse characters, each representing a different borough of New York City, as they battle against an ancient evil that threatens to consume the city and its inhabitants. Jemisin's writing is sharp and imaginative, bringing the city of New York to life in a way that is both familiar and fresh. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique voice and perspective. The plot is fast-paced and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers on the edge of their seats. One of the standout aspects of "The City We Became" is its exploration of identity and belonging. Each of the characters must come to terms with their own personal history and cultural background, as well as their role as a representative of their borough. This theme is woven throughout the novel, adding depth and complexity to the story. Jemisin also tackles important social issues, such as racism, sexism, and gentrification, in a way that feels organic and relevant to the story. The novel is a powerful commentary on the importance of diversity and inclusion, both in fiction and in real life. Overall, "The City We Became" is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and science fiction. Its unique premise, engaging plot, and diverse cast of characters make it a standout addition to the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jemisin's work or new to her writing, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
N.K. Jemisin
The Fifth Season
If you enjoyed the world-building and unique magic system in 'The City We Became', you'll love Jemisin's 'The Fifth Season'. This novel, which is the first in the Broken Earth trilogy, features a richly imagined post-apocalyptic world and a deep exploration of social issues, all wrapped up in a thrilling narrative.
Learn MoreAnn Leckie
Ancillary Justice
Fans of 'The City We Became' will appreciate the imaginative world-building and exploration of identity in 'Ancillary Justice'. This novel, which won the Hugo, Nebula, and Arthur C. Clarke awards, follows the protagonist Breq, who is the last surviving part of a starship's AI, as she seeks revenge against those who destroyed her ship and murdered her crew.
Learn MoreBecky Chambers
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
If you enjoyed the diverse cast of characters and sense of adventure in 'The City We Became', you'll love 'The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet'. This novel, which was a finalist for the Hugo Award, follows the crew of the spaceship Wayfarer as they embark on a dangerous mission to create a hyperspace tunnel to a distant planet.
Learn MoreN.K. Jemisin
The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms
If you loved the political intrigue and complex characters in 'The City We Became', you'll enjoy 'The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms', the first book in Jemisin's Inheritance trilogy. This novel follows Yeine, a young woman who is thrust into the dangerous world of her deceased father's family and must navigate the treacherous politics of the ruling families to survive.
Learn MoreMary Robinette Kowal
The Calculating Stars
If you enjoyed the sense of adventure and world-building in 'The City We Became', you'll love 'The Calculating Stars', the first book in Kowal's Lady Astronaut series. This novel imagines an alternate history where a meteorite hits Earth in the 1950s, sparking a space race to save humanity.
Learn MoreKatherine Addison
The Goblin Emperor
If you loved the political intrigue and diverse cast of characters in 'The City We Became', you'll enjoy 'The Goblin Emperor'. This novel follows Maia, the half-goblin son of the Emperor, as he navigates the treacherous world of the imperial court after his father and brothers are killed in a suspicious accident.
Learn MoreMary Doria Russell
The Sparrow
If you enjoyed the sense of adventure and exploration in 'The City We Became', you'll love 'The Sparrow', a novel about a Jesuit mission to another planet that goes horribly wrong. This novel explores themes of faith, culture clash, and the human capacity for both good and evil.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Left Hand of Darkness
If you loved the exploration of identity and social issues in 'The City We Became', you'll appreciate 'The Left Hand of Darkness', a classic novel of gender and society on a planet where inhabitants can choose their gender.
Learn MoreLiu Cixin
The Three-Body Problem
If you enjoyed the imaginative world-building and thrilling narrative in 'The City We Became', you'll love 'The Three-Body Problem', a novel about first contact with an alien civilization that threatens to destroy humanity.
Learn MoreAlix E. Harrow
The Ten Thousand Doors of January
If you loved the sense of wonder and imagination in 'The City We Became', you'll enjoy 'The Ten Thousand Doors of January', a novel about a young woman who discovers a world of magic and adventure beyond her own.
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