Plot Summary

Where We Once Belonged

Sia Figiel
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Where We Once Belonged

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996

Book Brief

Sia Figiel

Where We Once Belonged

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

248

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Samoa • 1970s

Theme
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Where We Once Belonged by Sia Figiel follows the coming-of-age journey of Alofa Filiga, a Samoan teenager navigating her oppressive society's behavioral expectations, with the narrative blending prose and Samoan storytelling forms. Set in the village of Malaefou, the novel delves into domestic violence, adolescent sexuality, church influence, and the struggle for individuality. The book contains graphic depictions of violence.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

646 ratings

60%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Where We Once Belonged by Sia Figiel offers a rich exploration of Samoan culture through the eyes of a young girl coming of age. The narrative is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of island life. However, some readers find the fragmented structure challenging. Overall, the novel is celebrated for its authentic voice and evocative storytelling, despite its nonlinear format.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Where We Once Belonged?

Readers who appreciate coming-of-age narratives with a rich cultural backdrop will enjoy Where We Once Belonged by Sia Figiel. Fans of The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe will find Figiel's exploration of Samoan identity and tradition compelling and resonant.

4.0

646 ratings

60%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

248

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Samoa • 1970s

Theme
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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