Fledgling

by Octavia E. Butler
Fledgling cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 7712
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781583228043
  • Publisher: Seven Stories Press
  • Published: 2011-01-04
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Fledgling, Octavia Butler's final novel, delves into the life of an amnesiac girl who uncovers her true identity as a genetically modified vampire. With her un-human needs and abilities, she must navigate a dangerous world to uncover her stolen past and the forces that seek to destroy her. The novel explores themes of 'otherness' and what it means to be truly human, blending elements of science fiction and horror to create a captivating narrative. As the protagonist struggles to piece together her memories, she forms relationships that challenge her understanding of herself and the world around her. The story is a gripping exploration of identity, survival, and the boundaries of humanity, set against a backdrop of suspense and intrigue.

Reviews
I Would Rather Be Reading Blog · 2022-10-23
thought-provoking 4.50

Butler's novel is thought-provoking and challenges antiquated notions, standing out alongside contemporary releases. It offers a unique take on vampirism and identity.

This reviewer highlights Fledgling as a standout novel that manages to challenge several outdated ideas, particularly in contrast to other books released around the same time. They appreciate Butler's unique take on vampirism and identity, which they find to be both thought-provoking and refreshing. The reviewer also notes that the novel's exploration of these themes is done in a way that feels both timely and relevant, making it a compelling read. They commend Butler for her ability to weave complex ideas into a captivating narrative.

Quick quotes

    Butler's offering proves to be much more thought-provoking.

    It manages to challenge several antiquated notions.

    The novel's exploration of these themes is both timely and relevant.

Tasker.land · 2022-08-16
chilling 3.00

The novel is described as cold and misanthropic, delving into darker aspects of human emotions. It challenges readers with its unflinching exploration of complex themes.

This review paints Fledgling as a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking read. The author finds the book's portrayal of human emotions to be a mere facade over something much darker and more sinister. It's a novel that doesn't shy away from challenging its readers, making it a compelling, albeit uncomfortable, read. The reviewer appreciates Butler's boldness in tackling such heavy themes, even if it makes for a chilling reading experience. They also note that the book's misanthropic tone might not be for everyone, but it's a testament to Butler's skill as a writer.

Quick quotes

    Fledgling is a profoundly cold and misanthropic piece of writing.

    It presents every human emotion as a flattering gloss on a deeper and darker reality.

    Butler's boldness in tackling such heavy themes is commendable.

Hedwig's World of Books · 2021-03-02
captivating 4.75

The novel is captivating and pushes the boundaries of 'otherness', questioning what it means to be human. It is praised for its depth and exploration of complex themes.

This review describes Fledgling as a captivating novel that truly tests the limits of 'otherness' and questions what it means to be human. The reviewer adores Butler's ability to delve into such complex themes and appreciates the depth of the novel's exploration. They find the book to be both thought-provoking and engaging, making it a standout read. The reviewer also notes that the novel's unique take on vampirism and identity is particularly compelling, and they commend Butler for her skill in weaving these themes into a captivating narrative.

Quick quotes

    Fledgling is a captivating novel that tests the limits of 'otherness'.

    It questions what it means to be truly human.

    I absolutely adore Octavia Butler's ability to delve into such complex themes.

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