Every month, Philly PR Girl highlights female authors who are changing the game and contributing to literacy! We do this to pay homage to talented women and recognize their work (some really good books that you may enjoy)! This month’s female author highlight is well known for her excerpt in Beyonce’s song “Flawless” where she talks about women empowerment and feminism. Her work ranges from novels to short stories to fiction. That’s right, we’re talking about Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Adichie is a known feminist and is appreciated for her work on women empowerment. You’ve probably heard her viral speeches and poems, but are you familiar with her books?
Purple Hibiscus (2003)
Adichie published her first book Purple Hibiscus in 2003, and the novel received wide critical acclaim! The story is told through the eyes of a 15-year-old girl, Kambili Achike, who lives in Enugu, Nigeria with her family. Enugu is beset by political instability and economic difficulties, but Kambili is a part of a wealthy family dominated by her Catholic father Eugene, also known as Papa. Papa is a violent figure in the household who beats his wife Beatrice, Kambili herself, and her brother Jaja. The story touches on many themes like change, domestic violence, religion and family relationships. You’ll be hooked in this emotional tale!
Half of a Yellow Sun (2006)
Her second novel, Half of a Yellow Sun, was named after the flag of Biafra. The story takes place before and during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-70) and is told through the perspective of Olanna, Ugwu, and Richard. It shows how the war affected the lives of five people, twin girls, a professor, a British citizen and a Nigerian houseboy. When Biafra declared secession, the lives of so many changed drastically, and the brutality of the war played a different role in each person’s life. This historical fiction novel addresses the role of politics in Africa. In November, Half of a Yellow Sun was voted the best book to have won the Women’s Prize for Fiction in its history. You won’t regret picking up this fictional work of art!
Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions (2017)
Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions is Adichie’s latest novel. One of her friends from their country of Nigeria asked her how to raise her daughter to become a feminist, so she wrote a book! The epistolary-style book consists of 15 tips on how to raise a feminist daughter. Adichie challenges the “prejudices of gender roles and expectations” as she speaks from experience and wisdom. With language that is clear, direct, and simple, her goal was to make it easier for parents who don’t know how to approach situations of gender inequality. This piece is officially licensed for publications in 19 languages! Run, don’t walk to your nearest bookstore to pick up a copy of this powerful novel!
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is the epitome of a gifted and phenomenal woman. Her contributions to literacy will live on for generations to come! Adichie advocates for all women without remorse and with such knowledge and passion.
“Feminist: A person who belives in the social, political and econoic equality of the sexes.” -Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
We will continue to honor women who contribute to literacy! Be on the lookout for next month’s #FemaleAuthorHighlight and let us know who some of your favorite female authors are! To read some of the past authors check out the #FemaleAuthorHighlight section here
