Walking Practice by Dolki MinMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
"Walking Practice": A Deep Dive into Gender, Alienation, and the Quest for Acceptance
Dolki Min's "Walking Practice" is a masterclass in speculative fiction, weaving a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is darkly humorous. At its core, the novel delves into the intricacies of gender identity, societal norms, and the ever-present human yearning for acceptance and belonging.
Min's protagonist, Mumu, a shape-shifting extraterrestrial, serves as a mirror to our society's rigid
constructs. Stranded on Earth and navigating the complexities of human interactions, Mumu's experiences underscore the challenges faced by those who don't fit neatly into societal boxes. The novel's exploration of gender is particularly poignant, highlighting the fear and discrimination faced by those who defy traditional gender norms. Min's astute observation that anything not immediately classifiable as male or female is met with prejudice is a stark reminder of the deep-seated biases that persist in our society.
constructs. Stranded on Earth and navigating the complexities of human interactions, Mumu's experiences underscore the challenges faced by those who don't fit neatly into societal boxes. The novel's exploration of gender is particularly poignant, highlighting the fear and discrimination faced by those who defy traditional gender norms. Min's astute observation that anything not immediately classifiable as male or female is met with prejudice is a stark reminder of the deep-seated biases that persist in our society.
Drawing parallels with Michel Faber's "Under the Skin," both novels center on extraterrestrial beings preying on humans, only to find themselves grappling with unexpected empathy for their victims. While Faber's protagonist discovers the humanity within her prey, Min's Mumu undergoes a similar journey of self-discovery, challenging its own beliefs and perceptions.
Comparatively, the novel's exploration of gender fluidity is reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Left Hand of Darkness." However, where Le Guin's work is subtle and philosophical, "Walking Practice" is more direct, confronting the reader with the stark realities of discrimination against anything that doesn't fit neatly into binary categories.
The narrative is enriched with Min's unique voice, blending wry humor with profound insights. Readers are treated to Mumu's candid observations on the absurdities of human behavior, especially concerning body standards and gender performance. The alien's perspective, both humorous and heart-wrenching, offers a fresh lens through which to view our own world.
While the novel boasts intricate black and white illustrations, some readers might find them leaning more towards the serious side, contrasting with the story's whimsical undertones. The artwork by Ian Mackay, as highlighted in a New York Times review, seems to capture the essence of the story more fittingly, merging absurdity with depth.
"Walking Practice" is an essential read for a broad spectrum of readers, from LGBTQIA advocates and bizarro fiction aficionados to those with a penchant for dark comedy, science fiction, and tales infused with absurdity. Dolki Min's storytelling prowess ensures that even the most bizarre premises can offer deep insights into the human psyche, making "Walking Practice" a standout in contemporary speculative fiction.
I rate the novel a 4.9 out of 5.
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