Four books to read this summer
Elias Seyoum, Head Librarian
Stuck on what to read this summer? NAI Head Librarian Elias Seyoum recommends some of his favourite titles. These books explore Africa's modern history through war, migration, identity and cultural heritage.
"I hope these summer reading recommendations inspire you to discover more books by African authors and writers of African descent around the world," says Elias.
Someone Like Us: A Novel by Dinaw Mengestu (2024) External link, opens in new window.
Someone Like Us follows Mamush, a nickname commonly given to children in Ethiopia, as he returns to his Ethiopian immigrant community in Washington, D.C. There, he begins to uncover the hidden past of Samuel, the father figure who shaped much of his childhood. As Mamush unravels long-buried family secrets, the story also offers a reflection on identity, exile, grief and the lasting impact of the past. Through thoughtful and a nuanced portrayal of the immigrant experience, Someone Like Us reflects on memory, family and the search for self.
The Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), which once operated in northern Uganda for many years became notorious for abducting children and forcing them to become soldiers. These children were subjected to extreme violence and manipulation, a tragedy that drew international attention and condemnation.
This memoir tells the story of one of those former child soldiers. It provides a powerful and deeply personal account of life inside the LRA, describing the brutality, fear, and psychological trauma that children endured as they were forced to become killers. Beyond documenting the horrors of war, the book also highlights the long and difficult journey toward healing and rebuilding a life after a terrifying conflict.
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (2007) External link, opens in new window.
Half of a Yellow Sun is a powerful and deeply moving novel that brings the tragedy of the Nigerian-Biafran War to life through the intertwined stories of its main characters. The book explores themes of love, family, identity and resilience while illustrating the devastating impact of war on individuals, families and the social fabric of society. Beyond its historical setting, the novel offers the enduring strength of hope in the face of loss. Combining rich historical detail with compelling storytelling the book is both an intimate family drama and a significant work of historical fiction that will remain relevant forever.
Léopold Sédar Senghor was a Senegalese poet and the country's (1960–1980). The Essential Senghor is an anthology in translation that brings together selections of his essays, speeches and literary writings from different periods of his career, accompanied by complete bibliographic references.
The collection provides an excellent introduction to one of Africa's most influential intellectuals, poets and political thinkers. As one of the founders of the Négritude movement, Senghor shaped debates on African identity and Black aesthetics. His ideas also influenced the cultural and political development of French-speaking West Africa and contributed to an enduring dialogue between Europe and Francophone Africa. The Essential Senghor provides as that his work and focus to advocate for the recognition of African intellectual and artistic traditions within a global context.