Anna Hibiscus

Anna Hibiscus lives in modern West Africa with her mother, father, baby twin brothers (Double and Trouble), and an extended family. The book is a collection of four linked stories, as we see Anna on holiday, preparing for a party, selling oranges, and hoping against hope to see snow. Anna Hibiscus is an engaging read with a rich narrative. This is Nigerian storyteller Atinuke’s first book, and she offers a non-stereotypical celebratory perspective on African life. Anna’s family are wealthy city dwellers and we see modern technology and transport juxtaposed with traditional aspects of Nigerian culture, including respect for the elder members of the family. The poverty gap is touched on but there’s a warm and humorous feeling to the book overall. With a liberal smattering of illustrations, this book is ideal for the newly independent reader.