Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 32 votes)
5 stars
11(34%)
4 stars
6(19%)
3 stars
15(47%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
32 reviews
July 15,2025
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Anticlimactic.

It is truly an anticlimactic ending, yet it remains a good read.

The story builds up such anticipation, making you desire so badly for Okonkwo to succeed.

You become invested in his journey, rooting for him every step of the way.

However, just like in so many aspects of life, things don't always go as planned.

Okonkwo has to face the reality of what he has been dealt and find a way to cope.

This theme of dealing with the hand you're given is a universal one that many can relate to.

It shows that even in the face of disappointment and setbacks, one must persevere and find a way forward.

Despite the anticlimactic nature of the ending, the overall story leaves a lasting impression and makes you think about the choices we make and the consequences that follow.

It serves as a reminder that life is full of surprises and that we must be prepared to adapt and overcome whatever comes our way.
July 15,2025
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I absolutely loved it. It is truly a great piece of African literature.

The story is filled with rich and vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the heart of Africa. The characters are well-developed and their struggles and triumphs are both relatable and inspiring.

The author's use of language is masterful, creating a beautiful and engaging narrative that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.

This piece of literature not only provides entertainment but also offers a deeper understanding of African culture and history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the diverse and fascinating world of African literature.

I would highly recommend this book to others and look forward to reading more from this talented author.
July 15,2025
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I read this book for my English class.

It was truly an extremely thought-provoking book.

I had never read a book that was set in Africa, especially during this particular time period.

It vividly展示了the intricacies of English colonization and how it had a profound impact on the lives of people within the tribes.

The ending was completely unexpected for me.

It was not what I had anticipated at all.

This book is an absolute must-read!

It offers a unique perspective on a significant historical period and the consequences it had on the native populations.

It makes you think deeply about the effects of colonization and the struggles that people had to endure.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history or wants to gain a better understanding of different cultures and their experiences.
July 15,2025
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I feel like I should give this book a higher rating since it's so acclaimed.

And I can certainly understand how 50 years ago when this was first published it probably broke new ground in telling the story of the African tribes.

Achebe does a wonderful job of exemplifying the tribal customs that create their "law" and why they would make certain decisions to appease their gods to ensure a good crop which in turn ensures the survival of the tribal community.

However, until the European missionaries come to really throw their world off balance, I found it a hard book to really engage in.

The white men, as usual, impose their laws and government which eventually leads to a tragic end.

Moreover, I have to agree with one other Goodreads reviewer who calls out that there are story lines that go nowhere without any explanation. For example, why is Ezinma taken to the cave???

I suspect I will think about this book over the next few days. We'll see if I need to come back to this site to revise my rating.

Overall, while the book has its strengths in depicting the tribal culture and the impact of the Europeans, there are also some aspects that left me a bit unsatisfied.

It makes me wonder if I'm missing something or if the book could have been developed more fully in certain areas.

Nonetheless, it's still a significant work that offers valuable insights into a different world and time period.

July 15,2025
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This book was truly remarkable.

It was written in a distinct style compared to the other books I have perused, and it brought a breath of fresh air.

The unique approach and narrative made it an engaging and enjoyable read.

Now, I find myself with the task of completing just one more book, and then this spring break will be truly complete.

I'm looking forward to delving into that final book and rounding out my reading experience during this break.

It's been a great time exploring different literary works and expanding my knowledge and imagination.

Once I finish that last book, I'll be able to look back on this spring break with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

I can't wait to see what adventures and stories await me in that final book.

July 15,2025
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It was okay.

Achebe is indeed a good writer, as his works are known for their depth and complexity.

However, in this particular story, I didn't really manage to grasp the main point.

The plot seemed to be rather disjointed and all over the place.

It jumped from one event to another without a clear and logical progression.

Perhaps I need to read it again more carefully to understand the intended message.

Despite this, I still appreciate Achebe's writing style and the effort he put into creating this story.

Maybe with further analysis and study, I will be able to uncover the hidden gems within the text.

Overall, it was an okay reading experience, but it left me with a sense of confusion and a desire for more clarity.
July 15,2025
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2/5. Book read for school. Reading books for school is an essential part of a student's learning journey. It not only helps in expanding knowledge but also enhances vocabulary, comprehension skills, and critical thinking abilities. When students read books assigned for school, they are exposed to different genres, writing styles, and perspectives. This broadens their understanding of the world and allows them to explore new ideas.


Moreover, reading books for school promotes a love for learning. It can spark curiosity and激发 students' interest in various subjects. By delving into the pages of a good book, students can transport themselves to different times, places, and cultures. This immersive experience enriches their educational experience and makes learning more engaging and enjoyable.


In addition, reading books for school prepares students for academic success. It improves their ability to analyze and interpret information, which is crucial for exams, essays, and research papers. By reading regularly, students can also develop better study habits and time management skills.


Overall, reading books for school is a valuable activity that offers numerous benefits. It is an investment in a student's future and helps them become well-rounded individuals with a thirst for knowledge. So, make sure to pick up that book and start reading!

July 15,2025
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The seminal work of African literature of the last century is truly remarkable.

It tells the story of one man and vividly portrays how he embodies cultural values within a so-called "primitive" society.

We witness his life, his actions, and the deep-rooted traditions that shape him.

However, the arrival of an "enlightened" society brings about a drastic transformation.

Everything that he has known and held dear is suddenly challenged and changed.

This work remains memorable even after fifty years, as it offers profound insights into the complex interplay between different cultures and the impact of change.

It forces us to reflect on our own values and the consequences of progress.

It is a work that continues to be relevant and thought-provoking, inviting us to explore the rich tapestry of human experience and the power of literature to illuminate our understanding of the world.
July 15,2025
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I really need to stop reading books that are listed on those so-called "Best Books Ever" lists. More often than not, I end up being disappointed. I find myself wondering why I don't see the supposed greatness of the book that everyone else seems to rave about. It makes me feel like an idiot for not being able to appreciate it in the same way. Maybe it's because my expectations are set too high by these lists. Or perhaps my taste in books is just different from what is considered "the best." Whatever the reason, I think it's time for me to start choosing books based on my own interests and instincts, rather than relying on the opinions of others.

July 15,2025
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This gave a nice picture of life in this village,

including the religion, food, and lifestyle.

The proverbs and sayings they used when communicating with each other were really interesting.

For example, calling someone "salt" for being afraid of water was quite unique.

Although I didn't agree with some of the practices in their culture,

it was painful to witness its disappearance.

This village had its own charm and character,

and it was a pity to see it fading away.

The traditions and values that had been passed down through generations were an important part of their identity.

As the world changed and modernization advanced,

it seemed inevitable that some aspects of their culture would be lost.

However, it was important to find a balance between progress and preservation,

so that the beauty and richness of their culture could be maintained for future generations to appreciate.
July 15,2025
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I discovered this book to be extremely interesting, which truly astonished me.

I relished in learning about the rich culture and profound religion of the native African people.

Among the characters, my favorites were Nwoye and Mr. Brown. Nwoye had the remarkable courage to break away from his abusive father in the name of Christianity. On the other hand, Mr. Brown made a genuine effort to understand African culture and traditional religion, which was highly admirable.

Conversely, my least favorite character was Okonkwo. He was an abusive, sexist, ungrateful, and murderous individual. I was initially a bit shocked when he ultimately hanged himself. However, upon reflection, I now understand that his pride prevented him from allowing a white Christian man and his messengers to take his life.

In my opinion, the main topics explored in this book are imperialism, sexism, honor, pride, tradition, and faith. These themes intertwine to create a complex and thought-provoking narrative that offers valuable insights into the human condition and the impact of cultural and social change.
July 15,2025
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The main theme of this story pertains to how the main character, Okonkwo, and his tribe specifically cope with the introduction of alien culture to their traditional ways. Achebe penned this novel with the intention of challenging the white colonial stereotypes of traditional African society. The outcome is a truly powerful narrative about the corrupting influence of colonialism on their culture. Achebe does an excellent job of elucidating the culture and seamlessly integrating it into his storyline. I refrain from saying more to avoid spoilers, but I truly relished this book.

My edition of this novel also includes related readings that are connected in some manner to the themes of the main novel. I discovered these to be beneficial in understanding the story.

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. The ending was completely unforeseen and poignant... It makes one reflect on the profound impact that external forces can have on a society's culture and way of life.
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