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45 pages 1 hour read

Akwaeke Emezi

Freshwater

Akwaeke EmeziFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Akwaeke Emezi

Freshwater

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nigeria And United States • 1990s-2010s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi explores the life of Ada, from her birth in Nigeria to adulthood, as she navigates internal and external conflicts influenced by being inhabited by ogbanje spirits. These spirits guide and protect her through traumas, relationships, and her journey toward self-acceptance amidst struggles with identity, mental health, and spirituality. The novel discusses sexual assault, self-harm, suicide, eating disorders, and domestic abuse.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Emotional

Challenging

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.2

35,647 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Akwaeke Emezi's Freshwater captivates with its unique narrative voice and exploration of identity, mental health, and spirituality. Reviewers praise its lyrical prose and bold storytelling. However, some find its nonlinear structure and intense themes challenging. Overall, it’s lauded for its originality and profound impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Freshwater?

Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi is ideal for readers who enjoy introspective, character-driven narratives that explore identity, mental health, and spirituality. Fans of works like The Color Purple by Alice Walker or The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy will appreciate its lyrical prose and complex themes.

4.2

35,647 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nigeria And United States • 1990s-2010s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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