The novel Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie tells the story of a 15-year-old girl named Kambili. In Kambili’s family, everything is controlled by her father, Eugene. Her father forces everyone in his family to follow his strict Catholic rules and punishes them if they don’t abide by his rules. When Kambili and her brother Jaja go to visit their Aunt Ifeoma’s house during Christmas, they are able to see what a truly happy family looks like, and they are able to feel love. As they battle with their father to be able to have the life they want, they face adversity through the social and political struggles in their community.
I really enjoyed this book, but I wish the ending wasn’t so abrupt. I felt as if they did not pay attention to one of the largest points of the plot. Overall, I was really able to relate to Kambili, and the way that she perceives things. I really recommend this book to anyone who is wanting to learn more about African cultures, or anyone who likes sad books.