Gingerbread
Gingerbread
Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
London • Contemporary
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi follows Harriet and her daughter Perdita Lee, who navigate issues of class, identity, and female power in London and Druhástrana. Harriet’s nearly magical gingerbread ties them to their past and each other. After Perdita ingests a mysterious powder and loses her voice, Harriet recounts their history and complicated ties with the influential Kercheval family, leading to a journey of self-discovery and reconciliation.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Emotional
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
15,929 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Helen Oyeyemi's Gingerbread captivates with its inventive prose and intricate storytelling, blending fairy tale elements with modern themes. Critics praise its originality and rich language, but some find the plot convoluted and characters difficult to connect with emotionally. Overall, it's a lyrical and imaginative read that may not suit all tastes.
Who Should Read Gingerbread?
A reader who would enjoy Helen Oyeyemi’s Gingerbread is one who appreciates imaginative storytelling with a whimsical, fairy-tale essence. This novel is ideal for fans of magical realism and intricate narratives similar to those found in works like Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber or Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits.
15,929 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi incorporates elements of magical realism, blending the line between fantasy and reality, which is a signature style of the author.
The novel draws inspiration from classic fairy tales, particularly the tale of "Hansel and Gretel," exploring themes of family, tradition, and identity.
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Helen Oyeyemi is known for her inventive storytelling and was included in Granta magazine's prestigious list of Best of Young British Novelists in 2013, underscoring her literary acclaim.
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304
Novel • Fiction
London • Contemporary
2019
Adult
18+ years
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