The Scar
The Scar
Book Brief
Beta578
Novel • Fiction
Armada • Fantasy World
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Scar by China Miéville, readers follow the journey of a linguist who is forcibly taken to a mysterious, floating city that seeks a powerful yet dangerous artifact. The story explores themes of identity, transformation, and exploration within a richly detailed and imaginative world.
Mysterious
Dark
Fantastical
Gritty
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
35,761 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
China Miéville's The Scar enchants readers with its rich world-building and imaginative storytelling. The intricate prose and unique, immersive setting are praised. However, some find the plot pacing uneven, and the complex narrative may challenge casual readers. Overall, it offers a captivating adventure for fans of complex fantasy.
Who Should Read The Scar?
Fans of epic world-building, dark fantasy, and intricate narratives will enjoy The Scar by China Miéville. Readers who appreciate the richly detailed settings and unique characters in Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings or the imaginative scope of Le Guin's The Left Hand of Darkness will find this novel appealing.
35,761 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Scar is part of the Bas-Lag series, which is known for its detailed world-building and combines elements of fantasy, steampunk, and horror, though each book in the series can be read independently.
China Miéville has described his genre-crossing work, including The Scar, as "weird fiction," a style characterized by blending speculative elements with the gothic and the surreal.
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The world of The Scar reflects Miéville's strong interest in the aesthetic and political possibilities of cityscapes, with the floating city of Armada serving as a vivid setting that embodies these themes.
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578
Novel • Fiction
Armada • Fantasy World
2004
Adult
18+ years
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