The Middle Daughter

Reviews / Votes

Absorbing and tender, Chika Unigwe's The Middle Daughter is a finely-drawn portrait of a young woman's resilience in the face of violence and grief -- PAULA HAWKINS Moving [and] absorbing * * Stylist * * Impressive . . . A multilayered tale like a Greek tragedy * * Oprah Daily * * The Middle Daughter is an unflinching portrait of a family's grief and one daughter's climb out of despair. An absorbing, memorable read -- AYOBAMI ADEBAYO This novel is about how things fall apart, how cracks form in the heart of the most beautiful things . . . An emotionally gruelling book to read for the ways it arced Nani's life along the unfolding of tragic experiences, which, made the ending so much more powerful, affirming, and satisfying -- AINEHI EDORO * * Brittle Paper * * The Middle Daughter is an emotionally charged exploration of the ways in which a woman may fall victim to conventions designed to ensnare her. Chika Unigwe is a writer of great conviction and superior insight . . . Nani's story drew me in from the start and pulled me under right up until the end -- AMINATTA FORNA Marvellous and engrossing from beginning to end. Unigwe navigates points of view with the sureness and composure of a writer in her element as Nani's raw and insistent voice drives the narrative -- SEFI ATTA Chika Unigwe's modern retelling of the myth of Hades and Persephone is pitch perfect - it is a meditation on the need we all share for belonging, and family, and love; a commentary on the journey we must all take in search of freedom -- HELON HABILA Difficult family dynamics, a violent marriage, and a woman's resilience combine for a profound and moving read . . . Real talent -- ALASTAIR CAMPBELL From the very first chapter of The Middle Daughter, you know you're in the hands of a skilful writer. In Nani, Unigwe has created a character that is both deeply loveable and deeply flawed. You'll root for Nani and you'll be frustrated by her. This is a book you'll want to read and discuss with someone. I highly recommend -- CHIBUNDU ONUZO