Publish Date: 2006 Awards: 2007 Orange Prize for Fiction
Against the backdrop of the Biafran war to establish the independence of Nigeria, the lives of five people are dramatically upended, and their ideals and personal loyalties tested. The novel follows young Ugwu, the revolutionary professor Odenigbo, the beautiful Olanna, her twin sister Kainene, and Richard, the Englishman who is enthralled with her, as they navigate the violence and tragedy of their time.