Orchestra of the Vanquished

Product details

The novel that made the shortlist for the 2019 British Man Booker Prize for Fiction
After a period of isolation and hardship following his father's death and his sister's departure, poultry farmer Chenensu meets the love of his life, Ndali. Although she rejects class distinctions, her family strongly opposes her relationship with a poor farmer who lacks a university degree. Chenensu sells everything he owns to travel to Cyprus and obtain a degree, only to discover there that he has fallen victim to a con artist who has swindled him out of all his money and life savings, leaving his future uncertain.
This seemingly simple tale is told by Chinensu's guardian spirit, the spirit that the Igbo people believe accompanies a person from conception until death. This unique storyteller will recount the tale in a wondrous and spiritual style, taking us into the world of Igbo culture and their understanding of the universe and humanity.
"A novel written with professional creativity, with a touch of magical realism and an intense dose of sad reality."
The Washington Post
"An original and profound work that will make readers laugh, get angry, and sympathize with the struggling hero as he determines his destiny."
Kirkus, Starred Review
"A tale full of ambition and warmth, of love and sacrifice, told by an ancient soul. A bold novel from an intriguing writer."