Chinua Achebe ​

Albert Chinụalụmọgụ Achebe was a Nigerian novelist, poet, professor, and critic. He is best known for his first novel, Things Fall Apart (1958), which is the most widely read book in modern African literature. His works focus mainly on the traditions and societal changes in African society.

Quick Facts ​

• Known for novels about the effects of colonialism on African society.
• His novel Things Fall Apart is the most widely read book in modern African literature.
• Has had his works translated into over 50 languages.
• Received the Man Booker International Prize in 2007.
• His novels explore the impact of Western customs and values on traditional African society.

Background ​

Achebe was born in 1930 in Ogidi, a large village in Nigeria. He was the fifth of six children born into the Igbo tribe. His parents, Isaiah Okafo and Janet Anaenechi Ileogbunam, were convert to Protestantism. Achebe was educated at the Government College in Umuahia and the University College in Ibadan. He studied literature in English, as well as history and theology. His first novel, Things Fall Apart, was published in 1958 when he was twenty-eight; the book has since sold more than twenty million copies and has been translated into fifty-seven languages, making Achebe the most translated African author of all time. Achebe taught at several universities, including the University of Nigeria, where he was also Dean of the Faculty of Arts. His other notable works include No Longer at Ease, Arrow of God, and A Man of the People. He died in 2013.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Achebe's writing style is characterized by simplicity, lucidity and his ability to convey deep messages through a straightforward narrative. His work offered a genuine portrayal of the African experience, debunking Western misconceptions about Africa and its people. He explored the impact of colonialism and the struggle for identity and independence, highlighting his culture's values and traditions. Achebe is much applauded for his commitment to the authentic representation of African narratives which had a significant impact on world literature.

Notable Works ​

• Things Fall Apart (1958)
• No Longer at Ease (1960)
• Arrow of God (1964)
• A Man of the People (1966)
• Anthills of the Savannah (1987)