FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LOKOJA KOGI STATE

FACULTY OF ARTS

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH AND LITERARY STUDIES

NAME:JESSICA OBEHI OSEMEIKHIAN

MATRIC NO:FAS18ELS133. ( C.O)

COURSE: GENDER STUDIES

CODE : ELS 338

TOPIC: DO A BOOK REVIEW OF CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE'S

"DEAR IJEAWELE" "AND WE SHOULD ALL BE FEMINIST".

BIOGRAPHY OF THE AUTHOR : CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a renowned Nigerian author and feminist icon. Born on
September 15, 1977, in Enugu, Nigeria, Adichie grew up in a family that valued education and
literature. She pursued her studies both in Nigeria and abroad, earning a bachelor's degree in
communication and a master's degree in creative writing.Adichie gained international
recognition with her debut novel, "Purple Hibiscus," published in 2003. The book garnered
critical acclaim and established her as a talented writer. She further solidified her literary
reputation with her second novel, "Half of a Yellow Sun" (2006), which won the Orange Prize
for Fiction and was adapted into a film.Adichie's writing often explores themes of identity,
feminism, race, and post-colonialism, portraying vivid characters and complex narratives. Her
works have received widespread acclaim for their lyrical prose, compelling storytelling, and
nuanced exploration of social issues. In addition to her novels, Adichie has written short stories,
essays, and delivered influential TED Talks that have reached a global audience.Adichie's novel
"Americanah" (2013) gained international recognition and was awarded the National Book
Critics Circle Award for Fiction. The book delves into themes of race, love, and cultural identity,
capturing the experiences of Nigerians living abroad and exploring the complexities of the
African diaspora.As a feminist, Adichie is known for her bold advocacy of gender equality and
her powerful speeches on feminism. Her TED Talk, titled "We Should All Be Feminists,"
delivered in 2012, became widely popular and was adapted into a book of the same name.
Adichie's writings and speeches have played a significant role in raising awareness about gender
inequality and challenging stereotypes. She has received prestigious awards, including the
MacArthur Fellowship (2017), commonly known as the "Genius Grant," in recognition of her
exceptional literary achievements.Adichie continues to be an influential voice in contemporary
literature and feminism, using her platform to shed light on important social issues and inspire
individuals to question societal norms. Her works have resonated with readers worldwide, and
she remains a celebrated figure for her artistry, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to
promoting equality and justice

WE SHOULD ALL BE FEMINIST BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "We Should All Be Feminists" is a remarkable book that explores
the essence of feminism in a concise yet profound manner. Based on Adichie's popular TEDx
talk, this essay delves into the fundamental principles of feminism, dismantling misconceptions
and shedding light on the urgent need for gender equality. Adichie's eloquent and persuasive
writing style captivates readers, compelling them to examine their own beliefs and biases,
ultimately urging them to embrace feminism as an essential aspect of social justice.

In this concise and impactful book, Adichie effortlessly breaks down the core tenets of feminism
while sharing personal anecdotes that demonstrate the pervasive nature of gender inequality.
Drawing from her own experiences growing up in Nigeria and later navigating the complexities
of contemporary society, Adichie challenges the traditional notions of masculinity and
femininity that perpetuate inequality. She highlights the importance of embracing feminism not
only as a political movement but as a mindset that seeks to eradicate discrimination and uplift
all individuals, regardless of their gender.

THEMES IN THE BOOK

Gender Stereotypes and Expectations: Adichie examines the harmful impact of gender
stereotypes, emphasizing how they limit both men and women, and reinforce societal norms
that hinder progress. She exposes the dangers of a patriarchal society that restricts individuals
based on their gender, and advocates for a more inclusive and equitable society.

Intersectionality: Adichie recognizes the intersectionality of feminism, acknowledging that

gender inequality is intertwined with other forms of discrimination, such as racism, classism,
and ableism. She emphasizes the importance of considering these intersections in our fight for
gender equality, ensuring that no individual is left behind.

Feminism as a Collective Responsibility: Adichie dispels the misconception that feminism is

solely a concern for women. She argues that feminism benefits everyone, as it aims to create a
fair and just society that recognizes the inherent worth and potential of all individuals,
irrespective of their gender. By engaging men and women alike in the feminist movement, she
highlights the transformative power of collective action.
Redefining Feminism: Adichie redefines feminism in the context of a global movement that
seeks to challenge and dismantle the existing power structures. She dismantles the negative
stereotypes associated with feminism and asserts that feminism is not about hating men or
seeking dominance over them, but about fostering equality, empathy, and respect.

Writing Style and Impact:

Adichie's writing style is eloquent, evocative, and accessible. She skillfully combines personal
anecdotes, statistical data, and historical references to create a compelling narrative that
engages readers on both an emotional and intellectual level. By weaving her own experiences
with broader social issues, she makes feminism relatable to readers from diverse backgrounds.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "We Should All Be Feminists" is a profound and insightful essay
that challenges readers to critically examine the societal structures that perpetuate gender
inequality. Adichie's persuasive writing style and personal anecdotes make feminism accessible
to all, while her emphasis on intersectionality and collective responsibility adds depth and
nuance to the feminist discourse. This book serves as a rallying cry for individuals of all genders
to actively participate in the fight for a more equitable and inclusive world.

CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE 'S DEAR IJEAWELE

"Dear Ijeawele" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a heartfelt and insightful book that offers
practical advice on raising children with feminist values. Written as a letter to a dear friend who
asked for guidance in raising her daughter, Adichie addresses key issues related to gender
equality, challenging societal norms, and nurturing a child's sense of self-worth. With her
characteristic warmth and wisdom, Adichie provides a roadmap for parents, caregivers, and
anyone interested in empowering the next generation with feminist ideals.

In this intimate and empowering book, Adichie responds to her friend's request for guidance on
how to raise her daughter as a feminist. Through fifteen thoughtful suggestions, Adichie shares
her own experiences, anecdotes, and reflections on gender equality. She encourages her friend
to instill in her daughter a deep sense of self-respect, agency, and empathy, while also
debunking myths and misconceptions about feminism. Adichie's advice transcends cultural
boundaries, making "Dear Ijeawele" a universal guide for promoting equality and inclusivity in
the upbringing of children.

THEMES IN THE BOOK

1)Challenging Gender Roles: Adichie emphasizes the importance of questioning and challenging
traditional gender roles. She encourages parents to avoid limiting their child's potential based
on societal expectations, urging them to provide equal opportunities and freedom of choice to
both boys and girls.

2)Language and Narrative: Adichie highlights the significance of language and storytelling in
shaping a child's understanding of gender. She urges parents to use inclusive language, avoiding
stereotypes and biases, and encourages them to expose children to diverse narratives that
challenge gender norms.

3)Empathy and Respect: Adichie stresses the value of teaching empathy and respect to
children, promoting an understanding of shared humanity. She encourages parents to foster an
environment where kindness, compassion, and equality are celebrated and practiced.

4)Critical Thinking: Adichie encourages parents to foster critical thinking in their children,
empowering them to question societal norms and biases. She advises guiding children to
analyze media, literature, and cultural influences critically, helping them develop an awareness
of inequality and discrimination.

5)Writing Style and Impact:

Adichie's writing style in "Dear Ijeawele" is warm, conversational, and accessible. Her words are
filled with sincerity and compassion, creating a personal connection with the reader. Through
her own experiences and relatable anecdotes, Adichie effectively conveys the importance of
raising feminist children in a world still grappling with gender biases and inequalities."Dear
Ijeawele" has had a significant impact on readers, both parents and non-parents alike. Adichie's
practical suggestions and heartfelt guidance offer a blueprint for nurturing the next generation
with feminist values. Her book encourages open conversations about gender, challenges
societal norms, and inspires readers to take an active role in dismantling stereotypes and
promoting equality.

CONCLUSION

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's works, including "Dear Ijeawele" and "We Should All Be
Feminists," symbolize empowerment, intersectionality, and the global nature of feminism. Her
writings challenge cultural norms, offer practical advice on raising feminist children, and reclaim
the term "feminism." They have had a significant impact, sparking discussions, changing
attitudes, and contributing to contemporary feminist thought.

REFERENCES

"We should all be feminist" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

"Dear IJEAWELE" by CHIMAMANDA Ngozi Adichie

www.Goodreads.com

"TEDxEUSTON conference paper" December 2012