A review by edgyveggie
Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta

emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

The story of a queer woman from her childhood to motherhood, set in Nigeria during and after the Nigerian Civil War of the late 1960s. I read this for a queer African literature class, and we discussed how it is and is not a coming out novel. Overall, this novel is beautifully written with well developed characters and a moving plot. It also includes in depth commentary on homophobia within Christianity, which is woven into the narrative in an ingenious way by Okparanta. This novel makes you think, cry, laugh, and will warm your heart. Overall, it captures a non-western queer story in a beautiful way, suited for people in the community and those who want to better understand what it means to be queer. 
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