Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of love, identity, and the lasting impact of war. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria's civil war, Okparanta weaves a compelling narrative that delves into the intersection of religion, culture, and personal desire. The story centres around the protagonist, Ijeoma, a young girl who experiences the devastating effects of war firsthand. When tragedy strikes her family, she is sent away to live with strangers and finds solace and friendship in Amina, another displaced girl. As their bond deepens, the novel navigates the complexities of same-sex relationships within a deeply conservative society.

I first heard about this book when I had to find novels to base my dissertation on. It was on intersectional feminism so I looked up Queer and Feminist African books and sifted through them. I’m not entirely sure why I picked this one but I don’t regret that decision one bit. I fell completely in love with the book and its characters. Amina, our protagonist, took me on a journey, I wasn’t expecting to go on. There were tears, understanding, care, worry and lots of love. One of the most remarkable aspects of Okparanta's writing is her ability to capture the emotional journey of her characters. Through vivid and evocative prose, she paints a nuanced picture of Ijeoma's inner turmoil as she grapples with her burgeoning feelings for Amina, while simultaneously trying to reconcile them with societal expectations and her religious upbringing. The author's exploration of identity is profound and sensitively handled, allowing readers to empathise with the protagonist's struggles and personal growth.

Furthermore, Okparanta's portrayal of Nigeria's civil war adds a layer of historical and political context to the narrative. The war becomes a catalyst for change, both in the country and in Ijeoma's life. The author highlights the effects of war on individuals and communities, offering a stark portrayal of the violence and loss experienced during that tumultuous time.

The supporting characters in the book are well-developed and contribute to the richness of the story. From Ijeoma's mother, who grapples with her own past, to the various individuals Ijeoma encounters on her journey, each character adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Okparanta skillfully uses their experiences and perspectives to shed light on different aspects of Nigerian society, including the role of religion, gender expectations, and the power dynamics within families.

While "Under the Udala Trees" is a beautifully written and engaging novel, there are moments when it becomes a ‘slow-read’ in a sense. However, Okparanta's lyrical prose and powerful storytelling largely compensate for minor lulls, ensuring that the emotional weight of the narrative never wanes.

Under the Udala Trees is a remarkable work of fiction that skillfully tackles themes of love, identity, and the struggle for acceptance. Chinelo Okparanta's vivid and heartfelt writing transports readers into a world of conflict and self-discovery. This book is a must-read for those seeking a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience, beautifully portrayed against the backdrop of Nigeria's history. I give it a solid 9/10!