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The Famished Road

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

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Book Brief

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Ben Okri

The Famished Road

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nigeria • 1960s

Topic
Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Famished Road, by Ben Okri, follows Azaro, a spirit child, navigating his life's journey amid the poverty and political unrest in a newly independent African nation. Azaro's adventures include encounters with corrupt politicians, spiritual beings, and other trials reflective of post-colonial struggles, captured in a vibrant and evocative narrative that mirrors oral storytelling traditions.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Melancholic

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.9

13,866 ratings

63%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ben Okri's The Famished Road receives acclaim for its lyrical prose and rich use of magical realism, creating a vivid, otherworldly narrative. Critics appreciate its deep exploration of post-colonial Nigeria and complex themes. However, some find it dense and challenging to follow due to its non-linear storytelling. The novel stands out for its imaginative depth and poetic style.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Famished Road?

Ideal for readers who appreciate magical realism and rich, poetic prose, The Famished Road by Ben Okri will appeal to fans of Gabriel Garcia Marquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude and Salman Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children. It’s perfect for those who enjoy exploring African folklore and profound philosophical themes.

3.9

13,866 ratings

63%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Character List

Azaro

An abiku, or spirit child, Azaro navigates the boundary between the material world and the spiritual realm, experiencing supernatural adventures and embodying the historical and cultural narrative of his nation.

Azaro's devoted and protective mother, who plays a central role in his decision to remain in the human world by showing unwavering love and care.

Azaro's father, a passionate and complex character who struggles with poverty and dreams of creating a better world while dealing with his personal flaws.

A multifaceted figure who runs a bar in the community, embodying both traditional virtues and the influences of corruption and political power.

Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nigeria • 1960s

Topic
Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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