Half of a Yellow Sun
Adichie, Chimamanda NgoziThis novel recreates a seminal moment in modern African history: Biafra's impassioned struggle to establish an independent republic in Nigeria in the 1960s, and the chilling violence that followed. Adichie weaves together the lives of three characters swept up in the turbulence of the decade: Ugwu, a thirteen-year-old peasant houseboy who survives conscription into the Biafran army, and twin sisters Olanna and Kainene. As Nigerian troops advance and the three must run for their lives, their ideals are severely tested, as are their loyalties to one another. [Small font]
Comments from Groups
This was probably the most challenging book the group has read...It was a story that needed to have the background researched as it was based on historical fact. Christchurch 317 The descriptions and characterisations were vivid...A very satisfying book and an author to look out for. Christchurch 318 Multi-layered book but no 'feel good' bits. Gore 004 Mixed reactions. It didn't suit some, but others found it extremely interesting and revealing about Biafra and educated Nigerians. Doyleston 001 We all liked her [author's] writing but found the second half of the book harrowing... Her characters were very good and the relationships ever changing and captivating. Christchurch 145 Good overview of what the British did to Nigeria...Recommended as a revelation on how friends turn into enemies. Auckland 134 All agree, one of the best books - well written insight into civil war. Nelson 007
Pages
433
433
Year
2006
2006
Reviews
10-07-2023
Enjoyed by all group members. Wonderful characters. An interesting combination of history and fiction.
10-07-2023
Great book - enjoyed by everyone.
10-07-2023
A small group at this month's meeting, but we all thought this a well-written account of a war torn Biafra. All learned a lot and we will look up other titles this author has written. A difficult subject, beautifully told.
10-07-2023
Overall not really enjoyed. Only one of our group had finished it at our meeting, but she recommended we persevere so we kept the books a bit longer to finish them. It was a "worthy' read - interesting to be made aware of a war, and that the repercussions are still being felt, but difficult to read. Either the content or the style of writing, or a combination of both
10-07-2023
We had all "enjoyed" reading this amazing book and found it quite thought provoking. We were assisted in the discussion by having a map of Africa, and one of our members lived on the border of Nambibia/Nigeria in 2005. She explained about the 'wigs' worn by women of standing, and many other cultural details.
10-07-2023
We enjoyed discussing the book. A couple of us found it a bit disturbing to read towards the end.
10-07-2023
The book was enjoyed by most. It was a long read but gave great insight into the Biafran war which none of us had known about.
10-07-2023
Excellent book! Enjoyed by all in our group. Would definitely recommend this book to other groups.
10-07-2023
Everyone enjoyed the book and agreed that we gained greater insights into the Biafran war, and its causes and results. Reading about war is never easy, but the story of the relationships of the characters was entertaining.
10-07-2023
Some of our group found the writing style difficult to follow, yet an interesting read with some history of Nigeria and the adventures of the characters. Enjoyed the 'family' and all the descriptions and personalities, and what war, loss and trauma do to human beings.
10-07-2023
Not enjoyed by all but enjoyed by most.
10-07-2023
This was a wonderful book! Enjoyed by all.
10-07-2023
Very intriguing book that resulted in interesting discussions regarding colonialism, and methods to maintain control over a country.