Summary: An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon is a compelling work of fiction set on a generational spaceship, the HSS Matilda, where society is divided by race and class, echoing the injustices of America. The story follows Aster, a dark-skinned healer who discovers secrets about the ship's past while navigating a hierarchy that mirrors the worst aspects of slavery. As Aster uncovers the truth about the ship's history and her own origins, she becomes a catalyst for rebellion, challenging the oppressive systems that govern her world. Solomon's masterful storytelling explores themes of power, identity, and resistance.
Opinion: The most compelling aspect of An Unkindness of Ghosts was its exploration of social injustice and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression. Rivers Solomon creates a vivid and haunting world aboard the HSS Matilda, where slavery and segregation are part of every aspect of life. The characters, particularly Aster, are deeply layered and flawed, making their struggles feel all the more real and urgent. I wasn’t disappointed anywhere throughout this book as it mixed social effects with a science fiction theme, which is very unique compared to many other science fiction books. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thought-provoking speculative fiction that challenges the status quo and stays with you long after you've turned the final page. I give this book a 5 out of 5.