I like to always bring up books in any conversation I find myself in because it’s the one thing I can yap about on end. So are you ready to dive into some seriously good reads? Whether you’re a bookworm on the hunt for your next read or just dipping your toes into the world of African literature, I’ve got five must-reads that’ll keep you hooked from start to finish.
Each of these books offers a glimpse into the diverse stories of Africa—think unforgettable characters, cultural shocks, and themes that’ll stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Let’s get into it!
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
Alright, first up—this one’s a classic. Things Fall Apart is like the granddaddy of African literature, and for good reason. Chinua Achebe takes us back to pre-colonial Nigeria, where we meet Okonkwo, a very annoying leader in the Igbo community.
But when Lizzy baby and her guys (the British) roll in with colonization, everything starts to change—fast.
Achebe doesn’t just tell a story; he paints a whole world that’s both beautiful and heart-breaking. Trust me, this one’s a must-read, and it’s kind of the best introduction to African Literature.
Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Next, we’ve got Purple Hibiscus, my all-time favourite book. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie introduces us to Kambili, a young girl living in Nigeria under the strict rule of her father. When I say you’d come to hate her father, I mean that in every sense of the word.
That man was evil. One of my favourite things about this book was Chimamanda’s writing- so descriptive.
She takes on Kambili’s journey of self-discovery and shows us just how terrible life can get when you have a dictator as a father. It’s suspenseful and a real page-turner.
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin
Now, if you’re up for something with a twist, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives is your go-to. Lola Shoneyin gives us a peek into the lives of a polygamous family in Nigeria, and oh boy, it’s juicy.
Each wife has her secrets, and as they come to light, things get messy in the worst way possible. It’s funny, it’s dramatic, and it’s got enough plot twists to keep you hooked till the end.
Faceless by Amma Darko
Looking for something a bit more gritty? Faceless by Amma Darko dives into the harsh realities of life on the streets of Accra, Ghana. The story follows a young girl named Fofo, who’s determined to find out the truth behind her sister’s mysterious death.
It’s a tough read but so worth it—Darko doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff, and her storytelling is both powerful and eye-opening.
We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo
Last but not least, we’ve got We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo. This one’s all about Darling, a young girl growing up in Zimbabwe who dreams of a better life. When she finally gets the chance to move to America, things aren’t exactly the fairy tale she imagined.
Bulawayo’s writing is funny and brutally honest—this book is a wild ride from start to finish.
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