Eleven five-star reads: My top books of 2014 – number 2

I have read 11 books this year that I have given the full five stars to. This is the second…

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi is perhaps better known for Half A Yellow Sun and, more recently, Americanah. But I think this, her first novel, is my favourite of the three. The novel is set in Nigeria and narrated by 15-year-old Kambili who lives with her brother Jaja and tyrannical priest father.

It is the father that is the most intriguing character in this novel as he mixes incredible acts of violence with generous acts of kindness. Kambili lives in fear of him – barely able to speak. This is in contrast to her Aunt Ifeoma and her cousins who live in a normal but poor household. This is a brilliantly-written book that is easy to read despite the sometimes unpleasant subject matter, and it leaves you thinking about the characters long after you have finished reading.

Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi
Title: Purple Hibiscus
Publication date: 2003
My Shelfari rating: Five stars *****

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