Story
Americanah starts with two teenagers, Ifemelu and Obinze, falling in love.
They live in Lagos, Nigeria, a country under a military dictatorship, which is prompting its people to flee to safety elsewhere.
While confident and determined Ifemelu leaves for US, Obinze heads for London.
Their lives take different paths, with both of them experiencing life-changing events that alter their perspectives.
The story documents their journey, and we wonder if they will come back together. And if they do, will their connection still be there?
Review
I loved this book. The action in the post 9/11, and takes in the themes of love, racism, suspicion, success, failure and resilience. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s style is very accessible: simple, engaging and full of empathy. This is a really believable and uplifting love story which also takes in politics and society. It is interesting to see how resilient the human spirit is through challenging times, and how sometimes people who have known us a long time can help us to feel grounded again.
Verdict
5 star
Most Memorable Quote
“Race doesn’t really exist for you because it has never been a barrier. Black folks don’t have that choice.”
If you enjoyed this book
...you may enjoy We Should All be Feminists by the same author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. You may recognise some of the text: it features in Beyonce’s Flawless.
Review by Cathy Walker, Innovation & Learning Team, Trust Office