For Octavia E. Butler (1947 – 2006), writing speculative and science fiction wasn’t merely a vehicle for escaping into fantasy, but a means to explore universal issues. This is certainly true of Kindred, the 1979 novel that is arguably her most iconic.

Butler’s deep and abiding interest in and observation of human nature — even within fantastical realms — is what makes her work so compelling and complex.

And yet her storytelling is flowing and natural. Her novels are tightly plotted page-turners; many of her protagonists are strong, believable Black women. Read More→