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Jagua Nana

Cyprian Ekwensi
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Jagua Nana

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987

Book Brief

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Cyprian Ekwensi

Jagua Nana

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
African American Literature

Classic Fiction
Setting

Lagos, Nigeria • 1960s

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Jagua Nana by Cyprian Ekwensi follows the life of an aging Nigerian woman, Nana, who lives in Lagos. Struggling with societal norms and personal aspirations, she navigates relationships, career changes, and identity. The narrative explores themes of love, ambition, and cultural conflicts within a rapidly modernizing society.

Gritty

Mysterious

Emotional

Romantic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

854 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jagua Nana by Cyprian Ekwensi offers a vivid portrayal of Lagos in the 1960s through the experiences of its protagonist. Praised for its rich depiction of urban life and complexity of characters, the novel is sometimes critiqued for its portrayal of women. Overall, it remains a powerful narrative on societal issues and human desires.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Jagua Nana?

A reader who enjoys Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe or The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta would appreciate Jagua Nana. They are likely interested in post-colonial African literature, complex female characters, and societal themes rooted in Nigerian culture.

4.1

854 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
African American Literature

Classic Fiction
Setting

Lagos, Nigeria • 1960s

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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