April 3, 2009

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Purple Hibiscus is a story told by a Nigerian teenage girl, Kimbili. Kimbili's family is wealthy, and her father is known for his generosity and devoutness to the Catholic Church throughout their community. But the insights of Kimbili, her brother, and her mother into the true character of the man of the house are not shared with outsiders until she and her brother visit their aunt and cousins. Kimbili struggles with relating to her cousins in part because their impression of her as a spoiled, rich kid who looks down on them is ridiculously off base.

Though there are some glimpses at the political upheavel in the country that remind you that this story takes place in Nigeria, it really could have taken place anywhere. It's a story about family loyalties and divisions, hypocrisy and proven faith, reservedness and finding your true voice. Kimbili struggles with her great desire to please her father, who in attempting to help his family does them much harm.

If you enjoy books about families or coming of age, you'll enjoy this book. It's a quick read that's difficult to put down.

3 comments:

  1. Hi, just read the book AND your review. And I think you summed it up well, except her name is Kambili, not Kimbili. Otherwise, great!

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  2. yes i really enjoyed this book ,,,, the father really reminded me of my own in very many ways ,,,

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  3. i have read many literature works(novels) but this chiamandas' work is the only heart trilling story i have ever come across.it brought alot of memories of my mentor back to my mind.inculcated in me a sense of belonging once more.

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