Purple Hibiscus

By: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Narrated by: Lisette Lecat

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a 2003 O Henry Prize winner, and was shortlisted for the 2002 Caine Prize for African Writing and the 2004 Orange Prize. In Purple Hibiscus, she recounts the story of a young Nigerian girl searching for freedom. Although her father is greatly respected within their community, 15-year-old Kambili knows a frighteningly strict and abusive side to this man. In many ways, she and her family lead a privileged life, but Kambili and her brother, Jaja, are often punished for failing to meet their father’s expectations. After visiting her aunt and cousins, Kambili dreams of being part of a loving family. But a military coup brings new tension to Nigeria and her home, and Kambili wonders if her dreams will ever be fulfilled. Adichie’s striking and poetic language reveals a land and a family full of strife, but fighting to survive. A rich narration by South African native Lisette Lecat perfectly complements this inspiring tale.

©2003 Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (P)2004 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"One of the best novels to come out of Africa in years." ( The Baltimore Sun)

“Prose as lush as the Nigerian landscape that it powerfully evokes. . . . Adichie's understanding of a young girl's heart is so acute that her story ultimately rises above its setting and makes her little part of Nigeria seem as close and vivid as Eudora Welty's Mississippi.” ( The Boston Globe)

"A sensitive and touching story of a child exposed too early to religious intolerance and the uglier side of the Nigerian state." (J. M. Coetzee)

such wonderful writing

thank you chimamanda ngozi adichi. this is now my favorite book, at least until I read another of your novels.

Purple Hibiscus

This was a very interesting story, but I found myself falling asleep if I listened to it on a plane ride, etc. Very well-written, but not quite as enthralling as Adiche’s other book, Americanah, which I just loved. Still a good read nonetheless!

Disturbing coming of age story

Read this book for book club. It is a disturbing coming of age story. The father is the protagonist. While he is someone that has improved the lives of those in the community, his kindness is not given to his family. The book addresses difficult decisions in a complicated situation. The father is good on the outside but rotten on the inside.

Heart touching

This story takes you to understanding the complexities of human beings when loving each other. Not only romantic but filial love.

Beautifully writtern

This story is truly a great read. Spectacular climax and such a wonderful ending. I really enjoyed it.