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'There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra' by Chinua Achebe delves into the history of Biafra, a state that seceded from Nigeria in 1967, leading to a devastating civil war that lasted until 1970. Achebe combines personal recollections with historical details to narrate the sequence of events from pre-independence Nigeria to the Biafran succession and the ensuing war. also features a collection of poems by the author that provide a poignant insight into the war-torn period. While some readers found the fusion of history and memoir to be somewhat disjointed, the book offers a unique perspective on this significant period in Nigeria's history.

If you liked There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra, here are the top 3 books to read next:

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  1. #1

    Things Fall Apart - The African Trilogy by Chinua Achebe
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    "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe explores the impact of European colonization on a Nigerian village and its inhabitants, particularly focusing on the protagonist, Okonkwo, a proud and traditional tribal leader. The narrative delves into the clash of cultures between the native Igbo society and the encroaching Christian missionaries, leading to the unraveling of traditional customs and beliefs. Through a spare and distinctly African voice, the story vividly depicts the struggles of Okonkwo as he grapples with personal conflicts, societal changes, and the looming presence of imperialism.

    Set against the backdrop of pre-colonial Nigeria, "Things Fall Apart" provides a thought-provoking portrayal of the complexities of tribal life, the tensions between tradition and modernity, and the devastating consequences of external interference. The novel weaves together themes of masculinity, family dynamics, cultural identity, and the erosion of indigenous practices, offering a poignant commentary on the destructive forces of imperialism and the resilience of a society facing profound transformation.

    Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond. His fame rested on solid personal achievements. As a young man of eighteen he had brought honour to his village by throwing Amalinz...

  2. Trevor Noah's memoir, "Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood," offers a unique perspective on growing up during and after apartheid in South Africa. Through a series of vignettes, Noah intertwines seemingly unrelated stories to illuminate the forces that shaped his childhood. The book delves into the complexities of race and culture in South Africa, providing insights into the author's upbringing, his family dynamics, and the societal norms that influenced his life.

    Sometimes in big Hollywood movies they’ll have these crazy chase scenes where somebody jumps or gets thrown from a moving car. The person hits the ground and rolls for a bit. Then they come to a stop ...

  3. "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson delves into two parallel stories set during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. One storyline follows the ambitious architect Daniel Burnham as he strives to create the greatest World's Fair ever seen, while the other narrative focuses on Dr. H.H. Holmes, who becomes the first mass murderer in U.S. history. intricately weaves together the challenges of organizing the fair with the chilling crimes committed by Holmes, creating a captivating blend of history and true crime. Readers are taken on a journey through the bustling city of Chicago, where the grandeur of the fair contrasts with the darkness of Holmes' actions, all presented in a narrative that reads like a suspense novel.

    THE DATE WAS APRIL 14, 1912, a sinister day in maritime history, but of course the man in suite 63–65, shelter deck C, did not yet know it. What he did know was that his foot hurt badly, more than he ...

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