The Suns of Independence

The Suns of Independence is a novel by Ahmadou Kourouma that captures the dreams and struggles of a newly independent nation, blending the everyday experience of 1960s postcolonial life with age-old myths and traditions. It is considered one of the great classics of Francophone African literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Suns of Independence, an award-winning novel by Ahmadou Kourouma, stands as a remarkable masterpiece of Francophone African literature, vividly capturing the dreams and hardships of a newly liberated nation. Fama, the last member of an ancient line of Dumbuya princes, held undisputed rule over the Malinke tribe before the arrival of Europeans. However, even after achieving independence, Fama finds himself struggling to secure his place among the bureaucratic elite. In this complex narrative, Fama's wife, Salimata, embarks on a desperate mission to preserve the Dumbuya legacy from the brink of extinction.

Beyond the captivating political intrigue, Kourouma intricately weaves a rich tapestry of Malinke culture, seamlessly blending the everyday realities of 1960s postcolonial life with age-old myths and traditions. Regarded as one of the most exceptional African novelists writing in French, Ahmadou Kourouma's work has garnered critical acclaim worldwide. The Guardian, in its review, praised The Suns of Independence as "perhaps the most remarkable African novelist writing in French."

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035901036