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A review by mishlist
Black Mamba Boy by Nadifa Mohamed
5.0
A harsh yet beautiful account of Jama's journey from boy to man, his search for his father and for wealth and an exploration of the effects of conflict and colonialism across Africa and Europe. Mohamed makes each character detailed and unforgettable, so that even as Jama encounters friends and kin again and again, the reader is able to recognise and remember their importance - and what I loved about Black Mamba Boy particularly is that characters reappear and echo throughout the narrative, that they all play a purpose in Jama's life. From Musa, an alcoholic Somali who plays his part in bringing Jama to England, to his mother Ambaro; her strength and love recalled in the Jewish mothers Jama would end up transporting, and his friends Shidane and Abdhi, from whom Jama would learn some of his most important lessons, including his place in the new world.
I loved the circular nature of Black Mamba Boy - Guure gone travelling, in search of himself and purpose and money for his family, to his son taking on the same burden and responsibility; a love for a sensible woman and a son left behind. Jama is such a strong, resilient character, with an enduring sense of wonder and humour, yet he is not flawless - unable to be rid of some of that childishness, indecisiveness - but Mohamed makes an effort to explain the reasons behind his actions, like why he chooses to work for the foreigners and his drive in moving from place to place in search of something, anything that will tie him to the world.
Black Mamba Boy was brimming with colorful characters- vain, fat women, cruel Italian soldiers, resourceful street boys- accompanied by events and happenings so rich and devastating that it made me cry. It provided a glimpse of the sweeping African landscapes - the golden sands and heat on the way to Port Said, the mess and noise and chatter of Aden, the jumble of alliances and kinship among the Somalis. And all throughout, Jama - a sulky child, not understanding family politics or the depth of his mother's love, to a stripling teen. From a member of the Italian army to a wealthy land owner, to a poor boy of eighteen with nothing, I have loved every second of his journey and his learning. 4.7 stars.
I loved the circular nature of Black Mamba Boy - Guure gone travelling, in search of himself and purpose and money for his family, to his son taking on the same burden and responsibility; a love for a sensible woman and a son left behind. Jama is such a strong, resilient character, with an enduring sense of wonder and humour, yet he is not flawless - unable to be rid of some of that childishness, indecisiveness - but Mohamed makes an effort to explain the reasons behind his actions, like why he chooses to work for the foreigners and his drive in moving from place to place in search of something, anything that will tie him to the world.
Black Mamba Boy was brimming with colorful characters- vain, fat women, cruel Italian soldiers, resourceful street boys- accompanied by events and happenings so rich and devastating that it made me cry. It provided a glimpse of the sweeping African landscapes - the golden sands and heat on the way to Port Said, the mess and noise and chatter of Aden, the jumble of alliances and kinship among the Somalis. And all throughout, Jama - a sulky child, not understanding family politics or the depth of his mother's love, to a stripling teen. From a member of the Italian army to a wealthy land owner, to a poor boy of eighteen with nothing, I have loved every second of his journey and his learning. 4.7 stars.