Book Review: ‘The Black Orb’ by Ewhan Kim

Book Title: The Black Orb
Author: Ewhan Kim
Translator: Sean Lin Halbert
Publisher: Serpent’s Tail
Number of Pages: 368
ISBN: 978-1800815728
Date Published: Sept. 5, 2024
Price: INR 330

Book Review

“The Black Orb“, written by Korean author Ewhan Kim and translated by Sean Lin Halbert, is a dystopian tale that begins with a chilling premise: a mysterious black sphere appears in downtown Seoul, consuming people and spreading terror. The story follows Jeong-su, a drifting thirtysomething, as he embarks on a perilous journey across South Korea to reunite with his parents amidst the chaos. With the orb’s relentless destruction symbolizing despair and hopelessness, the novel unfolds as both an apocalyptic thriller and a deeply introspective allegory.

Author Kim’s storytelling is sharp and haunting, drawing readers into a vividly imagined world unraveling under the orb’s growing menace. The slow, inexorable spread of the spheres mirrors the pervasive sense of doom in modern society, where human connection is fragile, and paranoia often reigns. The novel’s dry humor and absurdity add an unexpected layer, balancing the grimness of its themes. However, the story takes uncomfortable narrative turns at times, which may not resonate with all readers.

The protagonist, Jeong-su, is a deeply flawed character, often selfish and unlikeable. His struggles and choices compel readers to reflect on their responses to crises. Would we act selflessly, or would survival instinct push us toward selfishness? While Jeong-su’s moral ambiguity adds complexity to the narrative, it also creates a barrier to fully connecting with his journey. This tension between empathy and revulsion is a hallmark of Kim’s exploration of human nature.

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Though the novel’s pacing and vivid world-building make it hard to put down, the story’s conclusion may leave some readers unsatisfied. Its allegorical nature, paired with abrupt tonal shifts, can feel disjointed. Still, “The Black Orb” is a thought-provoking and darkly compelling read, offering an unsettling reflection on the fragility of civilization and the human psyche in the face of calamity.

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