The City We Became: A Battle for the Soul of New York

In “The City We Became” by N.K. Jemisin, New York City comes alive as a living, breathing entity, with each borough having its own unique personality and guardian. When the city is threatened by an otherworldly force, it is up to a group of individuals who embody the spirit of each borough to come together and save New York. This urban fantasy novel explores themes of identity, community, and the power of collective action.

The Birth of the Boroughs

The story begins with the birth of the five boroughs of New York City – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Each borough is personified by a human avatar who is responsible for protecting and nurturing their respective borough. These avatars are known as the “city’s children” and possess unique abilities that reflect the character of their borough. However, when the city is threatened by an ancient evil known as the Enemy, the avatars must come together to defend New York.

A Battle for the Soul of New York

As the Enemy awakens, it seeks to destroy the city by corrupting its avatars. The story follows the struggles of each borough’s avatar as they face personal challenges and confront the Enemy’s influence. Each character must come to terms with their own identity and learn to embrace the diverse and vibrant spirit of New York City. Through their journey, they discover the strength that lies in unity and the power of community.

Embracing Diversity and Overcoming Adversity

“The City We Became” explores the importance of diversity and inclusivity in a society. The avatars represent different races, genders, and sexual orientations, highlighting the richness and complexity of New York City’s population. The novel emphasizes the need to celebrate and protect the diversity that makes a city thrive. It also addresses the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the importance of standing up against discrimination and prejudice.

The book also delves into the concept of gentrification and its impact on communities. It raises questions about the erasure of cultural heritage and the displacement of long-time residents in the face of urban development. By addressing these issues, “The City We Became” encourages readers to reflect on the social and political dynamics of their own cities and the role they play in shaping their communities.

Key Takeaways:

• Celebrating diversity: The novel highlights the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity in a society, recognizing that it is the diversity that makes a city thrive.
• Unity in the face of adversity: “The City We Became” emphasizes the power of collective action and the strength that lies in unity, showing that when people come together, they can overcome even the greatest challenges.
• Preserving cultural heritage: The book raises awareness about the erasure of cultural heritage and the impact of gentrification on communities. It encourages readers to value and protect the unique aspects of their own cities.

“Cities are people. We are the city, and the city is us.”

In “The City We Became,” N.K. Jemisin creates a vibrant and imaginative world where cities are more than just buildings and streets – they are living entities with their own personalities. Through its exploration of identity, community, and the power of collective action, the novel reminds us of the importance of celebrating diversity, standing up against discrimination, and preserving the unique spirit of our cities. As readers delve into the pages of this urban fantasy, they are invited to reflect on their own cities and the role they play in shaping the world around them.