105 pages • 3 hours read
Chimamanda Ngozi AdichieHalf of a Yellow Sun
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is set during the Nigerian Civil War of the 1960s, focusing on the intersecting lives of Ugwu, a houseboy; Odenigbo, a professor; Olanna, Odenigbo’s wife; Kainene, Olanna’s sister; and Richard, Kainene’s lover. All characters become entangled with the Biafran cause, facing profound personal and socio-political challenges throughout the war. The book contains depictions of violence, including murder and sexual assault.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie offers a poignant narrative set during the Nigerian Civil War, praised for its compelling characters and rich historical context. Critics laud its emotional depth and intricate storytelling. However, some mention a slow pace in parts. Overall, it’s acclaimed for its vivid portrayal of a tumultuous period in Nigerian history.
Who Should Read Half of a Yellow Sun?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction, complex characters, and multi-narrative storytelling will find Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie captivating. Fans of works like Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini will appreciate its vivid depiction of Nigeria's Biafran War and its emotional depth.