Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Shepherding Humanity
"Shepherding Humanity" is a sprawling, ambitious novel that grabbed my attention with its unique premise: a cancer-stricken man gains the power to cultivate civilizations, acting as both god and game master. It's a blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and slice-of-life that, while not always perfect, offers a refreshing take on the world-building genre.
First Impressions
Initially, I was hooked. The idea of a protagonist creating and guiding entire civilizations from scratch, complete with different cultivation methods and epic heroes, was incredibly appealing. The early arcs, particularly the Sumerian and Babylonian chronicles, were captivating and full of potential. The introduction of players as beta testers for species evolution added a comedic and strategic layer that I found quite enjoyable.
What Works Well
The world-building is undeniably the strongest aspect of this novel. Each "world" the protagonist creates feels distinct, with its own unique cultures, mythologies, and power systems. I particularly enjoyed the interconnectedness of these worlds and the way characters from different arcs reappeared throughout the story. The author clearly put a lot of thought into the intricate details of each civilization, and it shows. I also appreciated the lack of typical tropes like arrogant young masters and harems. The early romance was a nice touch without overshadowing the main plot.
Areas of Concern
However, as I progressed, I started to notice some recurring issues. The focus shifting away from the protagonist and onto the individual players became less interesting for me. While the initial concept of players interacting with the world was intriguing, their often whiny and helpless behavior detracted from the overall experience. The later arcs, especially those with a heavy focus on xianxia elements, felt repetitive and less engaging. Additionally, some readers may find the strong Chinese cultural influence to be a bit overwhelming, as it tends to overshadow other mythologies and perspectives. Also I felt like the ending was a little rushed and could have been expanded.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some reviewers have pointed out plot holes and inconsistencies that become more apparent in the later chapters. For example, the unquestioning acceptance of the protagonist's words as absolute truth by the characters can feel unrealistic. There were also some plot points that were introduced nicely but later forgotten, like the MC's girlfriend.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Shepherding Humanity" is a worthwhile read for those who enjoy intricate world-building and god-protagonist stories. The early arcs are particularly strong, and the interconnectedness of the worlds is a major highlight. However, be prepared for some repetitive elements, a shift in focus away from the main character, and a strong dose of Chinese cultural influence. Overall, I'd recommend giving it a try, but temper your expectations as you get further into the story.
