anitaofplaybooktag's review
3.0
This memoir is an enjoyable read that is a picturesque coming of age story set in Africa. It's simply told without artifice or tremendous elaboration. We follow Laye's story as he is raised by his loving parents, attends primary school, falls for his first love, and finally becomes a man through a ritual circumcision. Unfortunately, the book ends on a bittersweet note and left me wanting more. Nicely rendered, but not likely to be memorable.
raphaelle_a's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
This book is a picture of the quickly changing and evolving Africa. It is also a tale of how growth can lead to separation. Laye was separated from his mother, in so many ways. First, by going through adulthood, then by going to Conakry, and finally by leaving for France.
He was not only separated from his mom, but also from his dad, his friends, his sisters and brothers, and even his lovers. But all of this was in quest of a better life, in quest of knowledge, in quest of growth. This is a short read and the story is so well written that you literally fly through the book.
He was not only separated from his mom, but also from his dad, his friends, his sisters and brothers, and even his lovers. But all of this was in quest of a better life, in quest of knowledge, in quest of growth. This is a short read and the story is so well written that you literally fly through the book.
anniesmanybooks's review
3.0
Autobiographical account of the author's childhood in a Guinean village, his transition into adolescence and, eventually his move to France. Some interesting and beautiful glimpses into Guinean life and traditions, but the account felt a little slow and dull at times.
shanbro's review
4.0
This book could be the opener for Season of Migration to the North. It's more childhood based and steeped in tradition and about a kid trying to find his place in an ever-changing world. It's less provocative than SOMTTN, but it's worth reading.