Sky Full of Elephants by Cebo Campbell

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 304 pages
Published: September 2024

Often on this blog I have written, Not every book is for everybody. If that statement was applicable to only one book I’ve reviewed on this blog, Sky Full of Elephants by Cebo Campbell would definitely be that book. What Campbell has done in this dystopian novel is creatively craft a fictional utopia that allows people of color, specifically Black people, to consider ideal beauty, ideal power, ideal wealth, and ideal success without the concept of white being that ideal. The end result is a story that taps into Black consciousness, a love letter of sorts to Black culture.

I’ve seen several reviews that the book is racist. I don’t think that is a fair criticism. I think the book, like any good form of art, makes the audience experience a level of discomfort. If that is not something you enjoy in your entertainment, this book is not for you because not every book is for everybody. The story is also science fiction; emphasis on fiction. No one is wishing any one group of people walk to the nearest body of water never to return. This is simply the fictional plot device the author used to create a vehicle that allows the reader to think deeper and ponder what a literal post-racial America might look like. I didn’t find it hateful. I found it cerebral, thought-provoking; an example of identity. 

The writing is absolutely outstanding. The sentence structure, the use of metaphors, the lyrical prose kept me thoroughly engaged until the satisfying end. I consumed this book in hardback while also listening to the audio (thanks Spotify!). The writing is strong enough to stand on its own, but the narrators on audio acted out a superb performance. While I highly praise this book, it is not perfect. There are some plot holes and ideas that don’t really seem plausible (refer back to the sci-fi part). The concept is lofty, and I think the execution was pretty solid for a debut. 

Recommendation: I truly enjoyed this book, and I appreciated the recommendation from my reading buddy, so much so that I paid to forward to my husband who is listening to the audiobook now. This is a read I’d like to revisit because there’s so much detail to unpack and ponder. I can’t wait to read what Mr. Campbell writes next! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.