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beth_diiorio's review
4.0
Underlying themes of the first-ever born set of triplets in village, familial ties and traditions, and "democracy" as seen through different lenses, made for a story that was witty, enlightening, and educational.
esther_habs's review
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
clarereadstheworld's review
4.5
I always love stories about big adult themes told from and innocent child's point of view, with all the hilarious misunderstandings that children make as they try to make sense of adult's behaviour, and this one did not disappoint!
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Set in an undetermined post-conical African state, this boom follows the childhood of the mischievous 'Matapari' (trouble). Matapari talks us through the goings on in his village, from his scholarly fathers work in education, to his ambitious uncle who rises (and falls) the political ranks.
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The childs voice narration adds a charming amount of comedy as he tries to make sense of seeing his uncle in bed with another married woman, and gives an interesting point of view on a post-colonial countries struggle to create political stability and a national identity after occupation by foreign powers.
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There is also of course a hint of the supernatural, in a nod to traditional African Folklore.
.
Set in an undetermined post-conical African state, this boom follows the childhood of the mischievous 'Matapari' (trouble). Matapari talks us through the goings on in his village, from his scholarly fathers work in education, to his ambitious uncle who rises (and falls) the political ranks.
.
The childs voice narration adds a charming amount of comedy as he tries to make sense of seeing his uncle in bed with another married woman, and gives an interesting point of view on a post-colonial countries struggle to create political stability and a national identity after occupation by foreign powers.
.
There is also of course a hint of the supernatural, in a nod to traditional African Folklore.
mamakass's review
3.0
I read this book when I had Emmanuel Dongala as a professor in college. I must say it was very interesting analyzing a book in class when the professor was the one who wrote it. But nevertheless, it was a pretty good read and I enjoyed it.
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