Purple Hibiscus - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Read by Lisette Lecat
Format: MP3
Bitrate: 64 Kbps
Unabridged

Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
Release date: June 28, 2004
Duration: 10:55:14

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a 2003 O Henry Prize winner, and was short listed for the 2002 Caine Prize for African Writing and the 2004 Orange Prize. In Purple Hibiscus, she recounts the story of a young Nigerian girl searching for freedom. Although her father is greatly respected within their community, 15-year-old Kambili knows a frighteningly strict and abusive side to this man. In many ways, she and her family lead a privileged life, but Kambili and her brother, Jaja, are often punished for failing to meet their father’s expectations. After visiting her aunt and cousins, Kambili dreams of being part of a loving family. But a military coup brings new tension to Nigeria and her home, and Kambili wonders if her dreams will ever be fulfilled. Adichie’s striking and poetic language reveals a land and a family full of strife, but fighting to survive. A rich narration by South African native Lisette Lecat perfectly complements this inspiring tale.

“ Lisette Lecat does not narrate this audiobook as much as she casts a spell. Her lilting British-accented voice evokes Nigeria’s colonialist past, and her adroitness with the Ibo-speaking characters clearly places us in another culture. Overall, her ability to imbue each character with a distinct vocal personality makes this a stunning performance. There is both beauty and horror in this tale of modern Africa, and Lecat ensures this work will linger in the listener’s memory.”…Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award