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352
Novel • Fiction
Nigeria And England • Contemporary
2005
Adult
16-18 years
In The Icarus Girl by Helen Oyeyemi, eight-year-old Jessamy Harrison, the daughter of an English father and a Nigerian mother, travels with her parents to Nigeria, where she meets TillyTilly, a mysterious girl who leads her into increasingly troublesome and supernatural situations, further complicating Jess's struggles with social integration, family secrets, and her sense of identity. Child illness, mental health struggles, and a serious injury during a sleepover feature prominently.
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Melancholic
Contemplative
5,601 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Helen Oyeyemi’s The Icarus Girl is lauded for its exploration of cultural identity and psychological depth. Reviewers appreciate Oyeyemi’s lyrical prose and vivid imagination, though some find the novel’s pacing uneven and its themes complex. Overall, it’s praised for originality and emotional resonance, offering a compelling, if occasionally challenging, read.
A reader who would enjoy The Icarus Girl by Helen Oyeyemi is likely captivated by psychological thrillers and literary fiction that delve into themes of identity, cultural conflict, and the supernatural. Fans of The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold and Beloved by Toni Morrison may find this novel compelling.
5,601 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
TillyTilly
A mysterious Nigerian girl around Jess's age who only Jess can see and interact with, leading to adventures that blur the lines between imagination and reality. Her true nature and connection to Jess remain ambiguous.
Sarah Harrison
Jess's mother, who was born in Nigeria and moved to England. She has a sometimes strained relationship with Jess, influenced by her own upbringing and cultural heritage.
Daniel Harrison
Jess's father, an Englishman who tends to be calmer and more patient compared to Jess's mother. He attempts to maintain a more open communication style with Jess.
Siobhan McKenzie
Dr. McKenzie’s daughter and Jess's friend, known for her talkative and lively nature, which contrasts with Jess's reserved demeanor. Despite initial belief in Jess's stories, she becomes wary of TillyTilly.
Dr. McKenzie
A psychologist who provides a supportive environment for Jess to share her thoughts but grows concerned about her mental health as her behavior changes.
Baba Gbenga Oyegbebi
Jess's grandfather in Nigeria, deeply rooted in both Christian and traditional Nigerian beliefs. He forms a close bond with Jess during her visit to Nigeria.
Colleen McLain
A classmate of Jess's who is part of the popular crowd and occasionally bullies Jess. They have a complex relationship fraught with tension.
Dulcie
Jess's cousin on her father’s side, who often seeks attention from adults and considers Jess to be odd. Their interactions are marked by mutual annoyance.
352
Novel • Fiction
Nigeria And England • Contemporary
2005
Adult
16-18 years
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