A review by katherinemonroe
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

challenging hopeful inspiring reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

This was a great read, though perhaps a bit slow to get through. I was assigned this book for summer reading, but I’m definitely glad to have read it. Adichie’s writing is honest and simple without being plain (i.e. not overly pretentious). It’s very readable and well-written, with plenty of astute observations regarding race, class, gender, and love in both America and Nigeria. The main character, Ifemelu, is a self-assured young Nigerian woman from a working class family who comes to the United States to study. She is likable, compelling, realistic, and relatable. Although the novel touches on many relavent social issues, I would categorize it mainly as realistic contemporary fiction. The plot follows Ifemelu (and her former boyfriend, Obinze,) in her experiences in America, her romantic relationships, friendships, family relationships, studies, and day-to-day experiences. Overall, I think it’s a book that everyone should read. My only complaint would be that the ending (though it is a satisfying, albeit a little predictable conclusion) felt a little less nuanced than the rest of the book.
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