Arrow of God

wasn't like things fall apart but it was very interesting...loved it to the last page!

so far so good ...

I have yet to read an Achebe book I didn't like. This one, Arrow of God, is no exception. This book was insightful and engaging. The theme of modernity coexisting/conflicting with "traditional" life is not new. Still, the way he weaves a story together is awesome.

A glimpse into the different cultures and beliefs that the human race has bestowed upon itself.

I dozed off from page 1If you are a survivor.readit

This novel is a more complex and challenging read than "Things Fall Apart." Whereas TFA resembles a classical tragedy, AoG is a complex, messy novel about politics, colonization, and religion, and the volatile combining of the three. This book requires more time and patience to read, and at least two readings to make much sense, but it has much to reward. Most fascinating is the illustration of...more

This novel is a more complex and challenging read than "Things Fall Apart." Whereas TFA resembles a classical tragedy, AoG is a complex, messy novel about politics, colonization, and religion, and the volatile combining of the three. This book requires more time and patience to read, and at least two readings to make much sense, but it has much to reward. Most fascinating is the illustration of how Christianity is designed to overpower inclusive native religions, such as those of the Igbo.   hide

It's a more difficult read than "Things Fall Apart," but it's brilliantly structured. It pieces together the ambivalence of Western colonialism in a unique way for us in that Achebe offers the perspective of the colonized without demonizing the colonizers. It feels balanced not only because it offers both sides, but because it also points out how the hubris of individuals and leaders ultimately...more

It's a more difficult read than "Things Fall Apart," but it's brilliantly structured. It pieces together the ambivalence of Western colonialism in a unique way for us in that Achebe offers the perspective of the colonized without demonizing the colonizers. It feels balanced not only because it offers both sides, but because it also points out how the hubris of individuals and leaders ultimately can contribute to the downfall of an entire society.   hide

An immersion into a different culture, told with clear-eyed compassion and exacting awareness of human folly, present everywhere. Recommended by Alan Jacobs.

The fall of animism set against the corrupting power of Colonialism and the rise of Christian missions. A tragic tale of the fall of a local priest and the destruction of traditional values in Africa.