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272
Novel • Fiction
Lagos, Nigeria • 1930s
1979
Adult
18+ years
The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta follows Nnu Ego, a young woman in Lagos, Nigeria, navigating the struggles of motherhood in a patriarchal society. After failing to conceive in her first marriage, she is sent to Lagos, eventually bearing several children and redefining her role in the community while enduring societal pressures and personal hardships. The novel contains topics related to sexual assault and grief.
Melancholic
Challenging
Emotional
Contemplative
8,023 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta is a poignant exploration of women's roles, combining cultural and feminist critiques. Reviewers laud Emecheta's nuanced portrayal of Nigerian society and empathy for her characters. Some critique its melancholic tone and perceived lack of resolution but acknowledge its powerful commentary on tradition and modernity.
Readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of womanhood, colonization, and cultural shifts will find The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta compelling. Fans of Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe or The Color Purple by Alice Walker will connect with its rich, evocative storytelling and thematically similar experiences.
8,023 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nnaife Owulum
Nnu Ego's second husband, who works in various manual jobs under British colonists, and struggles with financial instability and personal challenges.
Ngozi
Nnu Ego's firstborn son, whose early death brings sorrow and hardship to Nnu Ego's life.
Oshia
Nnu Ego's eldest surviving son, who receives special treatment and educational opportunities, representing his mother's hopes for the future.
Adim
Nnu Ego's second son, who is aware of the preferential treatment given to Oshia and is determined to pursue his own path.
Nnamdio
Nnu Ego's third son, who shows little interest in academics and is drawn towards a traditional lifestyle.
Kehinde and Taiwo
Nnu Ego's first set of twin daughters, who work in their mother's business and are not given educational opportunities.
Obiageli and Malachi
Nnu Ego's second set of twin daughters, who are still young at the conclusion of the novel.
Adaku
Nnaife's second wife, who is entrepreneurial and eventually seeks independence by stepping away from traditional expectations.
Nwokocha Agbadi
Nnu Ego’s father, a respected local chief who embodies traditional masculine ideals and holds great influence over Nnu Ego.
Ona
Nnu Ego's mother, who is caught between honoring her father and her love for Agbadi, and faces a tragic end.
272
Novel • Fiction
Lagos, Nigeria • 1930s
1979
Adult
18+ years
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