It is no surprise that we have several great African writers in the world today. Many have drawn wisdom from their culture, experiences, and their creativity to serve their generations.
In this post, we discuss five African novels you should read.
1. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe (1958)
Chinua Achebe is one of Africa’s prolific writers. His book, Things Fall Apart, is a classic novel depicting the conflict between indigenous values and the influence of colonialism in the southeastern part of Nigeria. It also shows the gender imbalance in high patriarchal societies.
2. The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born by Ayi Kwei Armah(1968)
This book sheds light on the hope for independence in the Democratic Republic of Ghana. The Author, Ayi Kwei Armah, uses the title to show that the beauty of Ghana’s independence is yet to be realised. The future generations of the country will escape the torment of colonial rulers and regain their freedom.
3. Half of A Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Adichie (2006)
Adichie, a natural storyteller, brings to light the situation that takes place during the Nigeria-Biafra war. The novel is set in the eastern part of Nigeria. It shows the lives of a University professor, twin sisters, a British Expat, and a Nigerian houseboy. The story exposes how war can affect the lives of these characters.
4. Coming to Birth by Marjorie Oludhe Macgoye (1986)
“Coming to Birth” is one astounding story that centres on the struggles of a young African woman, Paulina, and the quest for freedom. The main characters are Martin and Paulina, a couple based in the city of Nairobi, Kenya. Martin and Paulina experience various challenges, one being childlessness, while also facing the harsh realities of anti-colonial revolts.
5. The Promise by Damon Galgut (2021)
This gripping piece mirrors the story of a white family that loses touch after the death of their mother, a matriarch. Set in the apartheid era of South Africa, a black housekeeper has to keep a promise which will radically transform the lives of other members of the family.
Tell us, which of these books have you read and which one are you itching to read next?
Recent Comments