Thursday, July 16, 2020

BookMarks #70: The Ickabog

Title: The Ickabog
Author: JK Rowling
Genre: Fantasy, Children Fiction
Published: 2020

BookMarks
In these corona times comes a new story by JK Rowling, who unfortunately is currently mired in a social media controversy over some of her views. But that is a separate matter altogether.

The Ickabog is a children’s tale set long ago in a fictional happy land of Cornucopia. The story narrates how Cornucopia fell into despair and then rallied back. And how a creature whom many believed to be a myth turned out to be their savior through the heroic actions of some very brave children. Despite being essentially a children’s tale, the narrative covers contemporary themes like an incompetent leadership living in their own bubble filled with sycophants; use of fake news and propaganda to fill some private coffers; using a mythological figure for personal gain; voices of dissent being ruthlessly silent; flow of news choked; et al. 

However, for a children’s tale, it is quite grim, with the story riddled with multiple character deaths either through overwork or accident or even plain murder. In my opinion, a tad too violent for small kids. 

The serialized aspect of the story was what kept one hooked. A chapter or two, at times three dropped in every day. Each ending in a cliffhanger, which made you come back the next day. Although I did find it funny how the chapters released only on weekdays and never on Saturday or Sunday. I guess Ms. Rowling also believes in and strictly abides by a 5-day work week.

Overall, the Ickabog was a good entertaining ride. 

Previously on BookMarks: 281 And Beyond

No comments: