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Things Fall Apart
Things Fall Apart
Author: Chinua Achebe
First novel by Chinua Achebe, written in English and published in 1958. The novel chronicles the life of Okonkwo, the leader of an Igbo (Ibo) community, from the events leading up to his banishment from the community for accidentally killing a clansman, through the seven years of his exile, to his return. The novel addresses the problem of the i...  more »
ISBN-13: 9780449208106
ISBN-10: 0449208109
Publication Date: 1/12/1985
Pages: 192
Edition: Reissue
Rating:
  • Currently 3.5/5 Stars.
 103

3.5 stars, based on 103 ratings
Publisher: Fawcett
Book Type: Paperback
Other Versions: Hardcover, Audio Cassette, Audio CD
Members Wishing: 0
Reviews: Member | Amazon | Write a Review

Top Member Book Reviews

vallipow avatar reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 40 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
This short novel tells the story of Okonkwo,a traditional African farmer-warrior of the Ibo people of Nigeria. The story describes life in Ibo villages shortly before and during colonization by the British in the early part of the 20th century. The narrator's language is direct and simple, and the story is told as if to an audience comprised of people who share and understand Okonkwo's culture and history, with something of the cadence of a fable or a fairy tale. Okonkwo is proud, capable, and admired by his community for his strength and industry. Yet, he is deeply afraid of failure and of appearing weak, and his fear and inflexibility ultimately cause Okonkwo to have terrible difficulty adjusting to change. This famous African novel explores how both Okonkwo and his people handle the blessings and tragedies they face in both old and new ways. I found it memorable, but without the depth and layering that I prefer in my favorite fiction.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
This book didn't do much for me. I never connected to the characters or the events in the village. It read more like a cultural study than a novel based on three-dimensional characters. The last chapter was the best as Achebe reveals the way outsiders view the tribe as opposed to how they view themselves. I've heard great things about it from other people. Overall, not my style.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on
Helpful Score: 3
A beautifully woven story of strength and tradition painted in the colors of Africa, this book was truly touching. It is the story of a "strong man" living a life of simplicity in a small tribal village. I truly enjoyed the descriptions of their ceremonies and religious traditions. It was very eye-opening as it tells a familiar story from an unfamiliar point of view. Simply written and an "easy" read that really makes you think! A must-read!
WestofMars avatar reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 162 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I spent a good chunk of this book wondering if there was more to it than a retelling of how this Nigerian village and its people went through their days. But when it all comes into focus, be prepared for anger and tears.

Beautiful book. A classic.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I read this book for a college class and I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. If you're into history, I'd definitely recommend this book. Educational and interesting.
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reviewed Things Fall Apart on
Classic world-view expander!
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 5 more book reviews
Wonderful story taking place in Africa. Beautiful view into the life of another culture.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 18 more book reviews
This was an amazing book...I read it in High School, and ever since...it has stayed with me; haunted me, you could say.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 57 more book reviews
Very good reminds me of the culture clash we are going through with the middle east.
leslieam avatar reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 5 more book reviews
Excellent novel about the consequences of European colonization.
aardvark avatar reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 157 more book reviews
A thoroughly enjoyable and moving story, first of the everyday life of an African village, then of the clash between cultures when Christian missionaries bring their new faith. The musical lilt and sly humor of the writing remind me of the Alexander McCall Smith books.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 30 more book reviews
Amazing symbolic work set in a small village in Africa, dealing with fear and anger, and how it impacts one's life. Excellent story wbout how the "white man" coming to tribal life led to the end of traditional life.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on + 8 more book reviews
Classic.
reviewed Things Fall Apart on
Although this little gem didn't immediately capture my imagination, it was only a few chapters until I was eagerly devouring Okonkwo's life story. This book is elegantly and beautifully written. Don't miss it.


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