KatieMc

Oh, this was so good and I have to thank Rebecka for tipping this from the TBR to the read pile. No hemming and hawing about how to rate Americanah, I give it an easy-peasy 5 stars.

Americanah presents an interesting perspective on race and feminism through the story of Ifemelu, a Nigerian woman who immigrates to America and eventually returns back to Nigeria. Leaving Nigeria was not an idealized follow-your-dreams move, but rather one borne out of necessity, to escape the morass of a country led by military juntas. She also leaves her love, Obinze behind. Like any good immigrant story, she struggles and faces hardships. She also has successes. Of all things, she becomes a successful lifestyle blogger! And she scores in the boyfriend department (her blog readers get to know “Hot White Ex” and “Professor Hunk”). After spending many years observing and commenting as an outsider, Ifemelu returns to Nigeria and finds herself once again an outsider. Ifemelu is a compelling character, she is strong, true to herself, and doesn’t put up with BS. She is also a crappy girlfriend, bad employee, and can be rude. One thing that really struck me was that Ifemelu was a bit of a chameleon. She enjoys the privileged lifestyle while with Curt, and she eats organic food while with Blaine. It is only with Obinze that she seems to be truly herself.

I recommend Americanah for anyone interested in a feminist centric romance, and for anyone who wants a fresh perspective on race that could never be served up by a TV news pundit.