BY SAMINU MACHUNGA
To say history has been cruel to women would be an understatement. But through the activism of women like Simone de Beauvoir whose voice, amongst many others, shaped modern feminism, women are breaking glass ceilings and exploring opportunities that they were once denied.
In 1949, de Beauvoir wrote ‘The Second Sex’, a highly influential book where she critiques the patriarchy and social constructs faced by women.
In Nigeria however, this seeming gender divide has sparked discourse in the public space with the likes of award-winning author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie leading the charge.
Though Adichie is widely celebrated for her feminism values which are reflected in her works, there are other authors whose literature focuses on feminist themes.
Here are six must-read novels with feminist themes by Nigerian authors.
THE SECRET LIVES OF BABA SEGI’S WIVES BY LOLA SHONEYIN
This rousing tale by Shoneyin sheds light on the common threads that connect the experiences of all women: the hardships they bear, their struggle to define themselves, and their fierce desire to protect those they love.
HALF OF A YELLOW SUN BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE
Set in Nigeria during the civil war in the 1960s, Adichie’s Half Of A Yellow Sun focuses on the lives of people caught up in the turmoil. Adichie feminist convictions undoubtedly featured in the story.
5 Books By Black Female Authors That You Should Read This Month
“You must never behave as if your life belongs to a man. Do you hear me?” Aunty Ifeka said. “Your life belongs to you and you alone.”
EVERYTHING GOOD WILL COME BY SEFI ATTA
This captivating story follows the experiences of a young girl coping with the demands of the patriarchal society that encompasses her in a country struggling to find its post-independence identity.
ON BLACK SISTERS STREET BY CHIKA UNIGWE
On Black Sisters Street tells the tragic story of four very different women who have left their homes in different parts of Africa for the riches of Europe.
Unbeknownst to them, what lays ahead is a melting pot of bad luck which fortunately is the catalyst for a sisterhood that will change their lives.
PURPLE HIBISCUS BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE
Purple Hibiscus highlights the themes of religious hypocrisy, finding one’s voice, and the tenacity of love.
The story is narrated by Kambili Achike, a young Nigerian woman struggling to find her way in a nation plagued with conflict and political and economic instability.
STAY WITH ME BY AYOBAMI ADEBAYO
Adebayo’s Stay With Me explores, amongst other themes, the societal pressures to produce children.
Set in 1985, the story follows the lives of Yejide and Akin, a beautiful and prosperous couple living in Nigeria.
