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28 pages 56 minutes read

Houseboy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1956

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Book Brief

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Ferdinand Oyono

Houseboy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1956
Book Details
Pages

122

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cameroon • 1950s

Publication Year

1956

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Houseboy by Ferdinand Oyono tells the story of Toundi Ondoua, a young man from rural Cameroon who becomes a houseboy for colonial masters in the city of Dangan. His journey exposes him to the stark contrasts between African and European cultures, ultimately leading to his involvement in affairs that highlight themes of trust, power, and identity, culminating in tragedy. The narrative addresses colonial oppression, racism, and violence.

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Ferdinand Oyono's Houseboy provides a poignant critique of colonialism through the diary of Toundi, a young Cameroonian. Praised for its vivid imagery and emotional depth, the novel highlights the dehumanizing effects of colonial rule. Some readers find its structure disjointed, but its powerful message and cultural insight resonate deeply.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Houseboy?

A reader who would enjoy Houseboy by Ferdinand Oyono is likely interested in postcolonial literature and African history. Comparable to Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's The River Between, they appreciate complex narratives about colonialism, identity, and cultural conflict. Enthusiasts of poignant, reflective storytelling will find it compelling.

Book Details
Pages

122

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cameroon • 1950s

Publication Year

1956

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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