28 March 2023

The Girl with the Louding Voice

The Girl with the Louding Voice 
by Abi Daré is a coming-of-age story set in Nigeria. 

Adunni is fourteen. She lives in the village of Ikati. Her mother made her father promise to keep Adunni in school when she died. Her mother said that the more education you had the better your louding voice, your ability to speak up for yourself. 

Now her father has taken her out of school. There is no money to pay the fees. He cannot pay the rent for them and her two brothers. His solution is to marry Adunni to a man who can afford a good bride price. Adunni has no desire to get married. Her true love is learning. 

Any further details would necessarily include spoilers. Daré has written a heartwarming story set in a country rich and alive, but with a huge wealth gap. Though she has an arduous journey, Adunni is a beautiful character who could be many girls in Nigeria. She is always hopeful and that is what allows her to get where she wants to be. Read this wonderful story. 

Daré, Abi. (2020). The Girl With The Louding Voice. New York: Dutton.

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