On this day 12 years ago, the world bid farewell to Nigerian novelist and poet Chinua Achebe. But his literary legacy lives on. In this short video, African Stream’s Erick Gavala explores five novels that built Achebe’s reputation as one of Africa’s greatest writers.
Things Fall Apart is lauded for its groundbreaking portrayal of Igbo society and colonial disruption; Anthills of the Savannah and Arrow of God showcase his evolution into a more complex style – with broader political and philosophical themes; No Longer at Ease and A Man of the People offer sharp critiques of contemporary Nigerian life, tackling corruption and governance with Achebe’s signature wit and insight.
What do you think of our picks? What’s your favourite work by Achebe?