Wild Seed

This tale of two African demigods bound together in a centuries-long exploitative relationship was a revelation to me. Wild Seed is an arresting allegory for slavery, eugenics, and dehumanization, but it’s also a large-hearted and sometimes tender work of fantasy. (Or is it science fiction?)

Several of Butler’s works—for example, Kindred and Parable of the Sower—deal directly with class and inequality. But nowhere does Butler handle those themes with greater artistry than in this book.

Anyanwu is not your typical anti-heroine. Being both slave to a fiercer power in the immortal Doro, and nearly immortal herself, she walks a fine line of helplessness and fear to the one man that can easily kill her or, more readily, her hundreds of descendants.

Her battle for freedom from the tyranny of Doro and his breeding programs for those with special talents is finally, and only, undone by Anyanwu’s shocking willingness to accept what is anathema to her immortal body and soul.

A recommendation led me to buy this book. Although the concept didn't interest me, I decided to read it on its technical merits.

I'm glad I read it because the book kept me engaged from beginning to end. The author delves into the central idea that certain individuals are born with exceptional abilities. The interest remains throughout. The story was engaging, featuring two main characters attempting to outsmart each other and engaging in frequent verbal sparring.

The fantasy genre doesn't appeal to me because the hero usually wins by having more strength than the enemy. The story's progression didn't leave… show more.

Anyanwu is an immortal shapeshifter just minding her own business when Doro shows up. 

While Anyanwu lives her immortal life in the same body, Doro, also an immortal, lives by feeding on the life energy of others and taking over their bodies in the process. He wants to add Anyanwu to his collection.

I love this story. It’s almost a coming-of-age tale in that we see personal development in Doro. This was the first book I read by Octavia Butler, and I read this story every few years because it’s just that good to me.

Most people cite Kindred as Butler's best book, but I vehemently disagree.

Wild Seed takes a hard look at what it truly means to be an immortal who literally can't die. And how much free will do we have when someone can use love as a weapon against us?

Anywanu and Doro are the power couple to two continents, and this book is the grandmother of the modern Afrofuturism genre.

If you pick only one book from my list, pick this one.