Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi (Book Analysis): Detailed Summary, Analysis and Reading Guide

by Bright Summaries

Unlock the more straightforward side of Homegoing with this concise and insightful summary and analysis!

This engaging summary presents an analysis of Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi, which tells the story of two branches of the same family across several generations. Although Effia and Esi are sisters, they never meet, and their paths are irrevocably forced apart when Esi is sold into slavery and transported to America while Effia remains in their native Ghana. The effects of the slave trade reverberate through the generations as we are introduced to each of their descendants in turn and witness the ways that colonialism and racism shape their lives. Homegoing is Yaa Gyasi's debut novel. It quickly became an international bestseller and won the National Book Critics’ Circle John Leonard Prize for best first book.

Find out everything you need to know about Homegoing in a fraction of the time!

This in-depth and informative reading guide brings you:
• A complete plot summary
• Character studies
• Key themes and symbols
• Questions for further reflection

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27 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2019

Reviews

[Fatima · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a captivating book

[David Gee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this fascinating but troubling book. Troubling because of the terrible deeds associated with slavery from virtually every angle and time period. Fascinating because of the array of characters who make the story come alive as they are woven into and through multiple connected narratives. However keeping track of the many characters and how they all fit became troublesome for me. That was partly because I listened to the audiobook version (great reader by the way) in a very sporadic way over multiple days due to life's commitments and interruptions. Having a hard copy book and reading it straight through would probably have eliminated most of my issues here.

[Priyanka Nagaraj · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Homegoing" follows the parallel paths of two half-sisters and their descendants over several generations. One sister is sold into slavery in America, while the other marries a British colonizer in Africa. The book explores the impact of slavery, colonialism, and the African migration through the perspectives of different characters in each generation. It's a poignant and powerful exploration of family, history, and the enduring effects of past injustices.

[Jill Jenkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book interesting as I appreciate history and genealogy. And I enjoyed learning about some of the African communities and cultures and the harsh realities of the slave trade. I definitely wanted to keep each character ‘s story going on longer than it actually did. The ending was a very pleasant surprise.

[Rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most beautiful books that I have ever read. It is truly a great gift. In my view this should be essential reading everywhere. I think this is the only book that has ever given me goosebumps. I just finished it and would like to read it again right now.

[Firdaus Salim · Rating 2 out of 5]

Beautiful book.

[Barbara Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Homegoing

I didn’t realise I had download a study guide. It will be an enlightening read if you are interested in the Slave trade from Ghana to America

[Kylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I was only left wanting for "more" of each protagonist's story.

[London London · Rating 3 out of 5]

Engaging, comples and insightful writing on the experience and repercussions of colonialism and slavery.

[Marie Mcentire · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sad story on slavery

[Andre Smiljic · Rating 1 out of 5]

None

[Tomazia Benoliel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect blend of romance, history and culture. I have never seen a style of writing such as of Homegoing. The breakdown of characters and storyline makes it so exciting to read, it has a hugeeee plot twist that made me so full of joy once I got there.

While talking about slavery and the relation of Africans and African American, Gyasi shows how beautiful both cultures are.