Beneath the Lion's Gaze
320
Novel • Fiction
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia • 1970s
2010
Adult
18+ years
Beneath the Lion’s Gaze by Maaza Mengiste follows Hailu, a doctor in 1970s Ethiopia, as he grapples with personal and moral dilemmas amid political upheaval and violence. As protests erupt against the Emperor and a brutal neo-Stalinist regime takes over, Hailu's family faces severe trials, highlighting the humanity and struggle during Ethiopia's turbulent decade. The novel contains graphic depictions of torture and violence.
Dark
Challenging
Emotional
Mysterious
Melancholic
3,974 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Maaza Mengiste's Beneath the Lion's Gaze has been widely praised for its evocative prose, rich historical detail, and compelling characters, capturing Ethiopia's revolution with emotional intensity. However, some critics note uneven pacing and a heavy-handed narrative at times. Overall, it's celebrated for its powerful, immersive storytelling and deep emotional impact.
Readers who relish captivating historical fiction set in politically tumultuous times will be drawn to Maaza Mengiste's Beneath the Lion's Gaze. Comparable to Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart and Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner, it appeals to those intrigued by cultural intricacies and the human saga amidst revolution.
3,974 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Beneath the Lion's Gaze is Maaza Mengiste's debut novel and it was published in 2010, drawing attention for its vivid portrayal of characters during the Ethiopian Revolution.
The author, Maaza Mengiste, was inspired to write the novel partly based on her own family's experiences and stories during the tumultuous period in Ethiopia's history.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
Beneath the Lion's Gaze was selected by various publications as one of the best books of the year upon its release, highlighting its impact and significance in contemporary literature.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
320
Novel • Fiction
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia • 1970s
2010
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!