I love books that play with language and The Girl with the Louding Voice was no exception. 

TGWTLV tells the story of Adunni, a girl from a Nigerian village who wants nothing more than to learn. Her late mother raised her to believe in the power of education, but her father removes her from school and sells her to become the third wife of an older man. Adunni’s story is filled with tragedy and challenges, but she perseveres in pursuit of her goals, motivated by the will to decide her own future.

This story is told from Adunni’s point of view and written in her heavily accented English. While it may be difficult at first to get used to the language, I thought the way that Abi Daré played with words was brilliant. As Adunni continues to educate herself, her words evolve as well. 

Throughout the novel, other characters constantly put Adunni down and try to squash her dreams. Despite circumstances being against her favor, she does not back down and continues to fight for her right to learn, speak her mind, and ultimately control her own fate. Though dark at times, this story is inspirational and promotes education as a form of freedom.

This was Dare’s debut novel and I can’t wait to read her next. I also would love a sequel from this book because I really want to know where Adunni’s journey takes her!