Synopsis (Credit: Back cover)

Okonkwo, a member of the Ibo tribe in Nigeria at the end of the 19th century, is a man of power and substance. He reveres his family ancestors and gods and unquestioningly upholds the laws of the tribe. Within his lifetime he sees the gradual decay of all he holds most valuable, a decline hastened by arrival of white men with new laws and a new god.

On the 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die List.

(Bought second-hand at Help the Rural Child Charity Bookshop, Main Road, Retreat.)

When I found an audiobook version of this book in the library, I grabbed the opportunity despite having the book on my bookshelf. The advantage is that I could listen to it while commuting, thereby gaining bonus 'reading' time.

A story from the heart of Africa, set in what would become Nigeria at the end of the nineteenth century. The reader is introduced to various apects of Ibo culture and tradition, and learns how these were affected by the arrival of white missionaries and colonialists.

To echo the frustration expressed by Okeke, the interpreter, as he tried to mediate during a crucial conflict: "... he does not understand our customs, just as we do no understand his. We say he is foolish because he does not know our ways, and perhaps he says we are foolish because we do not know his. Let him go away."