Bessie Head's Maru is acclaimed for its poignant exploration of racial prejudice and human connection in Botswana. Reviewers praise Head's evocative prose and deep character development. However, some critique the pacing and occasional lack of resolution. Overall, Maru remains a powerful narrative on transcending societal barriers.

Readers who enjoyed the exploration of complex social issues and rich cultural settings in books like Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe or Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi will appreciate Maru by Bessie Head. The novel delves into themes of identity, love, and prejudice in a Botswanan village, ideal for fans of literary fiction and African literature.

In Maru by Bessie Head, Margaret, a Masarwa woman raised by a Scottish missionary, becomes a teacher in the village of Dilepe, where she confronts and challenges deep-seated racial prejudice. Through her relationships with key figures Maru and Moleka, who vie for her affection, Margaret's integrity and courage gradually influence the villagers to reconsider their biases against the Masarwa people. The novel explores themes of race, gender, and class dynamics, as Margaret seeks acceptance within a society entrenched in discriminatory beliefs. The book contains depictions of racial prejudice and mentions slavery.

Contemplative / Mysterious / Emotional / Inspirational / Challenging

- Maru is often celebrated for its deep exploration of identity and race, showcasing Bessie Head's ability to interweave themes of social justice into her narratives.
- Bessie Head draws on her own experiences and the cultural dynamics of Botswana, where she lived after leaving South Africa, to create the rich backdrop of Maru.

**Maru**  
A highly respected king with sharp perception and leadership qualities, who makes choices that lead to questioning of his motives and moral standing by his community.

**Margaret Cadmore (Orphan)**  
An orphaned Masarwa woman taken in by missionaries, who becomes a teacher and faces social challenge and discrimination due to her ethnicity.

**Margaret Cadmore (Missionary)**  
A woman of energy and moral principles, who raises the orphan Margaret Cadmore, aiming to provide her with education and a better life.

**Moleka**  
A chief and close friend of Maru, whose life changes with the arrival of Margaret, affecting his relationships and personal dynamics.

**Dikeledi**  
The daughter of a paramount chief, a teacher, and social justice advocate, who extends friendship to Margaret and challenges traditional familial roles.

Bessie Head

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Maru reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Maru | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Maru and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Maru

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Maru?

Reading Age

Book Details