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The Joys of Motherhood
The Joys of Motherhood
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1979
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta follows Nnu Ego, a young woman in Lagos, Nigeria, navigating the struggles of motherhood in a patriarchal society. After failing to conceive in her first marriage, she is sent to Lagos, eventually bearing several children and redefining her role in the community while enduring societal pressures and personal hardships. The novel contains topics related to sexual assault and grief.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta is a poignant exploration of women's roles, combining cultural and feminist critiques. Reviewers laud Emecheta's nuanced portrayal of Nigerian society and empathy for her characters. Some critique its melancholic tone and perceived lack of resolution but acknowledge its powerful commentary on tradition and modernity.
Who Should Read The Joys of Motherhood?
Readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of womanhood, colonization, and cultural shifts will find The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta compelling. Fans of Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe or The Color Purple by Alice Walker will connect with its rich, evocative storytelling and thematically similar experiences.
Recommended
Reading Age
18+yearsBook Details
African Literature
Heinemann African Writers
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