53 pages • 1 hour read
Chibundu OnuzoSankofa
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Sankofa by Chibundu Onuzo follows Anna Bain, a middle-aged woman of mixed heritage, as she navigates life after the death of her mother and the end of her marriage. Upon discovering her estranged father, a former West African prime minister, she travels to Bamana to meet him and uncover her roots. The novel explores themes of racial identity, political power, and personal reconciliation. This book contains discussions and depictions of racism, enslavement, and the legacy of colonialism.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Sankofa by Chibundu Onuzo is praised for its vivid storytelling and exploration of identity, heritage, and self-discovery. Onuzo’s engaging prose and well-developed characters are commendable, though some consider the plot predictable at times. The novel’s blend of humor and serious themes makes it a compelling read despite minor flaws.
Who Should Read Sankofa?
Readers who relish complex character exploration and diaspora narratives will enjoy Sankofa by Chibundu Onuzo. Fans of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Americanah or Yaa Gyasi's Homegoing will find similar themes of identity, heritage, and self-discovery. This novel specifically appeals to those interested in African settings and cross-cultural experiences.