Things Fall Apart

Achebe, Chinua. Things Fall Apart. Anchor Books, 1994. ISBN-13: 978-0-385-47454-2.

Plot
Okonkwo takes care of his family and home traditionally in the Ibo village in Nigeria. However, his way of life is changing with the influx of Christian missionaries. The new religion and way of government are challenging the establishment while Okonkwo desperately tries to reserve his way of life.

Critical Evaluation
Achebe has a talent of telling the story with raw and simple narrative. Although teens will be exposed to complex themes such as traditions being challenged and identity issues, the language of the book will not add any frustration in trying to understand the book. Despite the clear narrative, readers are still able to relate to the inner struggle with Okonkwo, how he tries to stay true to his traditions, but realizes that the world is changing.

Reader's Annotation
Okonkwo is a traditional man in Ibo, Nigeria. However he must deal with changes in his life and society from the arrival of Christian missionaries.

About the Author
Chinua Achebe was born in Ogidi Nigeria. He attended the Government College in Umuahia and then went on to University College of Ibandan. He studied English, history and theology. He taught at Universities and also served as the External Services in charge of the Voice of Nigeria.

Achebe has written two books including, Things Fall Apart. He has also published collections of short stories, poetry and other works for children.

Genre
Fiction

Curriculum
Religious/cultural Identity
Changes in traditions
African fiction

Book Talking Ideas
Despite the taboo, why do you think Okonkwo choose to do what he did?
Did you feel that Okonkwo was justified in trying to preserve his traditions?
Did you feel that changes in traditions are inevitable?

Reading Level/Interest Age
15+

Challenge Issues
The book deals with issues about religion and its role in life and being spread to other countries, spirituality, sexual relations and political conflict.


Challenge Answer
Teens can handle these difficult issues and will have to realize that people do deal with these conflicts.


Why Included in Selection
This book was fascinating and brought up great questions of religion, political issues and traditions.