Summary
Published in 2006, Half of a Yellow Sun tells a story of the Biafran War through the lens of four characters: Ugwu, Odenigbo, Olanna, and Richard. The novel takes place before and during the Biafran War, also known as the Nigerian Civil War, and captures the devastating effects of colonialism, violence, and political turmoil in Nigeria. Through the characters’ perspective and personal relationships, Adichie illustrates the drastic changes thousands of Nigerians experienced as a result of war and migration. More specifically, how the Civil War affected people’s marriages, friendships, jobs, education, and mental health.
Kyna Smith ’19