Read this when
Purple Hibiscus
Kambili's dad was the most respected man in town. At home, nobody was allowed to laugh. If you grew up walking on eggshells, this one sees you.
Who it's for
Fifteen-year-old Kambili narrates her life in a wealthy, devout household where her father, Eugene, is admired publicly and violent privately, and her quiet, halting voice captures how fear feels from the inside.
Feelings it meets
What it is
Purple Hibiscus is Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 2003 debut novel, set in south-eastern Nigeria under military rule. Fifteen-year-old Kambili Achike narrates life with her father Eugene, a wealthy businessman, philanthropist and devout Catholic who is admired in public and violent toward his family at home.
Where to find it
In print; widely available from libraries (Libby/Hoopla) and as an audiobook. Not public domain.
Before you start
Heads up: Severe child abuse and domestic violence.
Age: Ages 14+
When I stand before thee at the day's end thou shalt see my scars and know that I had my wounds and also my healing.Rabindranath Tagore, Stray Birds, no. 290
