The Son of the House
A powerful exploration of resilience and identity in Nigeria
Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Europa Editions (UK) Ltd
Published:6th May '21
Should be back in stock very soon
Two Nigerian women face life-altering challenges in The Son of the House, revealing their resilience and contrasting experiences amid a patriarchal society.
In Igboland, the lives of two Nigerian women intertwine in a profound narrative that explores resilience and the impact of societal norms. The Son of the House delves into the lives of Nwabulu and Julie, each navigating their own struggles within a patriarchal society. Nwabulu, having been a housemaid since childhood, dreams of a brighter future as a typist, even as she endures the demanding tasks set by her employers. Her heart, however, is captured by the son of a wealthy man, adding complexity to her aspirations.
On the other hand, Julie represents a more modern perspective, educated and independent, yet caught in the allure of Eugene's lavish gifts. She is determined not to be reduced to a mere second wife, yet she finds herself enjoying the attention and material offerings. The contrast between Nwabulu's dreams and Julie's reality highlights the varying experiences of women in Nigeria, each shaped by their circumstances and choices.
As unforeseen events force the two women into a confined space, they share their stories, revealing the depth of their character and the strength they possess. Set against the backdrop of four decades of Nigerian history, The Son of the House is a captivating debut that pulsates with life, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and the bonds that form in times of crisis.
“If you are going to read any new book on Nigeria, this one is it.” -- Ikhide Ikheloa * Brittle Paper *
“The Son of the House is filled with drama and loss and hope, weaving together the lives of these women who help each other navigate the patriarchal society that threatens to smother them... Onyemelukwe-Onuobia leaves the readers with no choice but to identify with these women, to understand them and to feel their pain. It's beautifully written and intimate; an incredible first novel and hopefully the first of many.” * City Press *
“A powerful and intimate narrative of bravery, of overcoming personal injustice, and having the strength to face difficult truths about oneself.” * Sunday Times SA *
“Onyemelukwe-Onuobia's intimate study of the issues facing contemporary Nigeria resonates, and her masterly storytelling makes this consistently entertaining. The result is as moving as it is thought-provoking.” * Publishers' Weekly *
“Told through a witty and lyrical perspective and language, the novel examines how class and inequality leave permanent imprints on people's lives. The book throbs with a kind of intensity and suspense that is bound to keep the reader invested in these characters' lives till the very end.” * The Daily Star (Bangladesh) *
- Short-listed for Nigeria Prize for Literature 2021 (Nigeria)
- Long-listed for The Scotiabank Giller Prize 2021 (Canada)
ISBN: 9781787702882
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
304 pages