Americanah: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Americanah is available online or at your local library.
The first in a bi-monthly video series (or fortnightly series for the Aussie’s and Brits) of book reviews and how other people’s stories (fiction and non-fiction) can help you address challenges in your life.
Hopefully as I get more practice in, the video and caption work will improve vastly… But we all have to start somewhere!
About this book:
Americanah is a book about a woman, race, love, blogging, self-value, gender, Nigeria, America, England, success, friendships, family, growing up, humour, culture. If you are looking for support and inspiration to speak bravely, love honestly, and- even with your own flaws- make decisions that honour the best of yourself and your talents without getting too heavy, then this book is for you.
And if you are looking to discover more about Nigeria and African people then Chimamanda is the author for you: not a cliche in sight.
If you find yourself wondering why it’s so important to read, watch and listen to stories told by people themselves (rather than as a subject matter by someone else), then this book might clear up some of those questions you have: the perspectives are fresh, rich and honest.
Also it’s completely compelling, cover-to-cover.
About future books:
The books I will be reviewing will usually be novels or biographical in nature rather than usual ‘self-help’ books. I believe other’s stories can not only inspire us, but can provide a sense of solidarity, connection, courage and even a kick in the bum when needed.
If you would like some help re-authoring your story, or healing from a painful experience then please contact me through my contact page.
If you’d like to suggest a novel that impacted your life and your story, then please do so in the comments section- and of course, feel free to add your own thoughts or feelings on whatever i’ve reviewed: anything that might help another person.
Thanks for this great review, Nicole! This book sounds fascinating. Probably not a book I would normally buy, but I’m going to check out this book and her TEDTalk as well after watching your video. Do you happen to have a link to her TEDTalk?
Hi Clinton, I’m glad my enthusiasm encouraged you to seek out a great author. This is the link to her TEDTalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?language=en
Hi Nicole, I loved hearing your book review. It made me want to read the book and also helped me get to know what you as a therapist would be like. Thanks for an informative and authentic review!
Hi Marg, It’s great to hear that something i’m passionate about and how it relates to people’s everyday lives, hopes for themselves and healing journeys also demonstrates how I sit with the people who come to see me. Thinking outside the box and travelling through our stories relates directly to my kind of therapy.