Half of a Yellow Sun

“Half of a Yellow Sun” is a novel written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, published in 2006. Set in Nigeria during the Nigerian Civil War (also known as the Biafran War) of the late 1960s, the novel tells the story of three characters whose lives are intertwined: Ugwu, a young boy from a rural village who becomes a houseboy for a university professor; Olanna, the professor’s mistress from a wealthy Nigerian family; and Richard, a British expatriate and writer who falls in love with Olanna’s twin sister.

The novel explores the impact of the war on these characters’ lives and relationships, as well as broader themes such as colonialism, ethnic conflict, love, and resilience. The title “Half of a Yellow Sun” refers to the symbol on the Biafran flag, symbolizing hope and independence during the war.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s writing in this novel is celebrated for its lyrical prose, rich characterization, and poignant exploration of historical events. “Half of a Yellow Sun” received several awards, including the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2007. It has been widely praised for its powerful portrayal of a tumultuous period in Nigerian history.