Read the lovely review by Ms Karabo below... I also enjoyed reading the book (for the second time) and would definitely recommend it to anyone
Purple Hibiscus is a captivating story written through the eyes of 15 year old Kambili raised in a stifling Catholic household in Nigeria. She takes us on a journey of being raised by a man who is a wealthy factory owner and a very influential community leader who is praised and idolized by the public but behind closed doors he is very abusive both emotionally and physically.
The book is well written and it takes us through the emotional and physical abuse that the family endures through the hands of the one person they all love so much,"papa". They learn to love him for his violence because he always explains his actions and how it is beneficial for them, they've also adapted to his controlling ways
I can't help but feel sorry for Kambili as she is socially awkward and is trapped within her own self. "Papa" has instilled so much fear in them to a point where Kambili has lost the voice to express herself in a twisted way that she always finds a way to justify the abuse. It's not until Kambili and Jaja(her brother) visit their aunt's house, that they get to experience a different life, a life with less money but more love, laughter and personality.
Auntie Ifeoma is a contrast to papa, she is very outspoken and doesn't have the same financial power as her brother but is very helpful. She is a force to be reckoned with, a larger than life personality. She is fearless and independent and her children model the same characteristics which is the opposite of Kambili and Jaja.
The book evokes real emotions, I found myself sympathizing with Kambili and her family. How can a man who loves his family so much be so cruel and mean and not realize the impact that the abuse has on his family. Sometimes what you think is best for your children might not necessarily be the best for them in the long run. Nonetheless the book is amazing and I would read it again.
