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The Book of Memory

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( 3,941 ratings, 578 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Book of Memory by Petina Gappah is a poignant narrative centred around Memory, an albino woman from Zimbabwe, who is imprisoned for the murder of a white man named Lloyd. Through her reflections and vivid recollections, the story unfolds, delving into themes of identity, race, and the complex interplay between personal and collective histories. This beautifully woven tale explores how memories shape and redefine our understanding of truth and belonging.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by stories that explore themes of memory, identity, and justice. It's a powerful narrative set in Zimbabwe that delves into the life of a female prisoner with a unique perspective, blending heartfelt emotion with socio-political commentary. If you're fascinated by character studies and rich cultural backdrops, this story should captivate you.

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The stunning debut novel from the award-winning author of An Elegy for Easterly, longlisted for the Bailey's Women's Prize for Fiction.

The stunning debut novel from the award-winning author of An Elegy for Easterly, longlisted for the Bailey's Women's Prize for Fiction.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Moving between the vibrant townships of the poor, and the suburbs and country retreats of the rich, The Book of Memory is a compelling, contemporary tale of love, obsession, and the cruelty of fate.

Memory is an albino woman, languishing in prison in Harare, Zimbabwe. At nine years old, she was adopted by a wealthy manโ€”a man whose murder she is now convicted of. Facing the death penalty, she tells the story of the chain of events that brought her there. But is everything exactly as she remembers it?

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Book of Memory by Petina Gappah has received praise for its intriguing narrative structure and the profound depth of its characters. Reviewers commend Gappah's exploration of themes such as memory, cultural identity, and the complexities of the Zimbabwean backdrop. The book is often highlighted for its lyrical prose and the compelling voice of the protagonist, creating a poignant and thought-provoking reading experience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780571249916

Publisher: Faber & Faber

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 June 2016

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Faber & Faber

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 17.0mm

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 233.0mm

Weight: 215g

Pages: 288

About the Author

Petina Gappah is a Zimbabwean writer with law degrees from Cambridge, Graz University and the University of Zimbabwe. Her debut collection, An Elegy for Easterly, won the Guardian First Book Prize in 2009.

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