In Memoriam: Chinua Achebe - #BooksoftheWeek: March 25, 2013

 
Every week, ZODML spotlights three great books from our extensive collection to inspire readers to try out books they might not have previously heard of. The selections fall under three major categories – fiction, non-fiction and children and young adult literature – so there’s a book to suit every taste. This week, our selections pay homage to Chinua Achebe and reflect the richness and diversity of his life's work. Be sure to also check out our archives and see which books have been selected in the past.
Anthills of the Savannah In the imaginary West African country of Kangan, a Sandhurst-trained officer known only as Sam or 'His Excellency' has seized power following a military coup. Using the intertwining stories of three friends - Chris Oriko, the government's Commissioner for Information; Beatrice Okoh, an official in the Ministry of Finance and girlfriend of Chris; and Ikem Osodi, a newspaper editor critical of the regime - Achebe weaves a dramatic tale of conflict and politics in modern Africa in this finalist for the 1987 Man Booker Prize. There Was a Country Marrying history and memoir, poetry and prose, There Was a Country is a vivid firsthand account of Achebe’s experiences during the Nigerian Civil War bolstered by forty years of research and reflection. Chike and the River The more Chike saw the ferry-boats the more he wanted to make the trip to Asaba. But where would he get the money? He did not know. Still, he hoped.  Chike and the River is a magical tale of boundaries, bravery, and growth.