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We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo - 4* - My Review

This story begins in Zimbabwe and follows protagonist Darling from age ten to mid-teens. She and her friends lead what seems a normal (but impoverished) childhood. The narrative gradually reveals the politics of the time and the upheaval going on with respect to race relations and changes in the Zimbabwean government. The kids do not completely understand but through their innocent eyes, the reader gains a deeper understanding of the situation. It is a serious story told with empathy. By using a child narrator, the author keeps the violence at a distance. She also employs humor to give the reader a place to pause and contemplate. It is both a coming-of-age story and one of immigration. It portrays the difficulties these immigrants experience and uses subtle humor to poke fun at some of the American customs. I found these segments particularly appealing. Some practices that Americans take for granted must seem very bizarre to those who are not used to them. The differences in these two cultures are extreme. I read this book on the strength of Glory, which is outstanding (also set in Zimbabwe). This book is quite good for a debut and showcases Bulawayo’s talent as a writer.

PBT July BWF Extra letter B and tagged "debut" x9:
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