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Zainab conquista New York
Zainab si prepara a cominciare il suo stage a New York.
Sogna di diventare un’illustratrice professionista e, tra vita notturna, archivi di fumetti storici e street art, gli stimoli non le mancano.
Peccato che le donne della sua famiglia si intromettano a più non posso dal Ghana – e non solo la mamma, che viene a trovarla in carne e ossa nella sua stanzetta in affitto a Brooklyn, ma anche le antenate dall’oltretomba.
Voci che criticano, commentano ogni suo passo, spesso irritanti, ma anche capaci di risvegliare una forza ancestrale preziosissima.
Con il suo terzo romanzo, Ayesha Harruna Attah porta l’Africa a New York.
Sogna di diventare un’illustratrice professionista e, tra vita notturna, archivi di fumetti storici e street art, gli stimoli non le mancano.
Peccato che le donne della sua famiglia si intromettano a più non posso dal Ghana – e non solo la mamma, che viene a trovarla in carne e ossa nella sua stanzetta in affitto a Brooklyn, ma anche le antenate dall’oltretomba.
Voci che criticano, commentano ogni suo passo, spesso irritanti, ma anche capaci di risvegliare una forza ancestrale preziosissima.
Con il suo terzo romanzo, Ayesha Harruna Attah porta l’Africa a New York.
367 pages, Paperback
Published March 2, 2022
13 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
January 8, 2022
3 stars. This was extremely hard to rate but I think 3 is just right.
This is a painfully relatable coming-of-age story that will speak volumes to women of colour who were raised in conservative households adjusting to life in the big city. Like a bird out of its cage.
It is going to bump into branches, walls, eat things its not supposed to eat and date boys they're not supposed to date....wait, I don't think I'm talking about birds anymore.
We follow Zainabou, a Ghanaian woman from a small community with a passion for the arts, who travels to NYC for her internship. She finds out she is not only bound by the proverbial chains of out-dated & conservative conventions, but is also very literally, haunted by the voices of her ancestors.
The story takes Zainab on a journey of self-discovery as she sheds the mould her parents and culture has shoved her into and slowly grows into her own.
As someone who grew up and is still growing up in an extremely conservative Asian household, I could see myself in Zainab. As much as I hate to admit it, I could see myself making the same mistakes and blunders as Zainab. Her losing herself in the freedom was something I absolutely predict for myself. I could see that yearning to be free of the suffocation of 'ancestral voices', as she puts it, in my own desires to one day live in a big bustling city, where people are too busy and too diverse to be judgemental.
I know some readers were put off by her obsession with losing her virginity, but that in conservative cultures, is a big deal. Your virginity determines your worth, and seeing Zainab desperate to lose it didn't annoy me. I saw it as her first big step to breaking free of that mindset. I saw it as an act of defiance. It is her saying, "My worth does not lie in my 'purity'. I decide my own worth." It was a necessary statement to make to herself, for her to start on the path of true self-discovery.
So I must commend on how soulful and real this book is, in depicting the unique experience of a Black, Muslim, conservative woman starting to take charge of her own life and navigating through the daunting complexities of life in THE big city, New York City.
I think this book is a great example of show, and not tell. Maybe too good of an example.
While I think I got the gist and soul of the book, I couldn't help but think I was simply projecting my experiences onto the character instead of actually trying to grasp the story. While we spent a lot of time in Zainab's head, there was not enough reflection. I could only guess how all these scenes were supposed to contribute to Zainab's growth and I only had reaffirmation that my guesses were right at the second-last chapter.
What I'm trying to say is that Zainab needed even more depth. I would've loved if her feelings or thoughts were delved into more, so I would've been able to truly capture the essence of who Zainab was and to immerse myself in her perspective.
There was a serious attempt at a character arc but the ending was so rushed, it didn't allow the new and free Zainab to truly settle in my mind's eye. Before I could really grasp her growth and newly-acquired maturity, the book ended. I think we should've given more weight to the ending. It can make or break a book.
I've seriously never been so torn between a 3-star or a 4-star rating. While the story was extremely soulful and unique, the writing left a lot to be desired.
I wished I could say that it came with that liberating, feel-good satisfaction of a good coming-of-age story but it was just shy of that.
Overall, it was a solidly good book I would still recommend, albeit to a fairly limited audience, that has its own flaws.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗#netgalley #ZainabTakesNewYork
Thank you so much to Flux Books for providing me with a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
"The ancestors lived. Now, it's out turn. Our world is nothing like theirs."
This is a painfully relatable coming-of-age story that will speak volumes to women of colour who were raised in conservative households adjusting to life in the big city. Like a bird out of its cage.
It is going to bump into branches, walls, eat things its not supposed to eat and date boys they're not supposed to date....wait, I don't think I'm talking about birds anymore.
We follow Zainabou, a Ghanaian woman from a small community with a passion for the arts, who travels to NYC for her internship. She finds out she is not only bound by the proverbial chains of out-dated & conservative conventions, but is also very literally, haunted by the voices of her ancestors.
The story takes Zainab on a journey of self-discovery as she sheds the mould her parents and culture has shoved her into and slowly grows into her own.
As someone who grew up and is still growing up in an extremely conservative Asian household, I could see myself in Zainab. As much as I hate to admit it, I could see myself making the same mistakes and blunders as Zainab. Her losing herself in the freedom was something I absolutely predict for myself. I could see that yearning to be free of the suffocation of 'ancestral voices', as she puts it, in my own desires to one day live in a big bustling city, where people are too busy and too diverse to be judgemental.
I know some readers were put off by her obsession with losing her virginity, but that in conservative cultures, is a big deal. Your virginity determines your worth, and seeing Zainab desperate to lose it didn't annoy me. I saw it as her first big step to breaking free of that mindset. I saw it as an act of defiance. It is her saying, "My worth does not lie in my 'purity'. I decide my own worth." It was a necessary statement to make to herself, for her to start on the path of true self-discovery.
So I must commend on how soulful and real this book is, in depicting the unique experience of a Black, Muslim, conservative woman starting to take charge of her own life and navigating through the daunting complexities of life in THE big city, New York City.
I think this book is a great example of show, and not tell. Maybe too good of an example.
While I think I got the gist and soul of the book, I couldn't help but think I was simply projecting my experiences onto the character instead of actually trying to grasp the story. While we spent a lot of time in Zainab's head, there was not enough reflection. I could only guess how all these scenes were supposed to contribute to Zainab's growth and I only had reaffirmation that my guesses were right at the second-last chapter.
What I'm trying to say is that Zainab needed even more depth. I would've loved if her feelings or thoughts were delved into more, so I would've been able to truly capture the essence of who Zainab was and to immerse myself in her perspective.
There was a serious attempt at a character arc but the ending was so rushed, it didn't allow the new and free Zainab to truly settle in my mind's eye. Before I could really grasp her growth and newly-acquired maturity, the book ended. I think we should've given more weight to the ending. It can make or break a book.
I've seriously never been so torn between a 3-star or a 4-star rating. While the story was extremely soulful and unique, the writing left a lot to be desired.
I wished I could say that it came with that liberating, feel-good satisfaction of a good coming-of-age story but it was just shy of that.
Overall, it was a solidly good book I would still recommend, albeit to a fairly limited audience, that has its own flaws.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗#netgalley #ZainabTakesNewYork
Thank you so much to Flux Books for providing me with a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 30, 2023
Re-Read April for a panel discussion
I re-read this book for a panel discussion with the author and I am so happy I did because I think I enjoyed it a lot more the second time around. If you are looking to read a book that is a love letter to New York, of a girl who is trying to find her creative identity.
I definitely enjoyed this the second time around.
You know that book that you pick up thinking you would love but it just falls short? This is one of them.
In Zainab Takes New York we meet twenty-something-year-old Zainab who recently moves to New York and is working as an intern at an illustration company. Zainab starts hearing voices, at first there were few but then they become three and they do not stop. Zainab doesn't know what to make of this and is unable to pay for therapy because she is not able afford it. We are taken on an adventure as Zainab tries to find herself, explore New York and learn more about herself.
Honestly, this one did not hit the mark for me. The plot felt underdeveloped, the main character was not interesting, and overall the book felt rushed.
I re-read this book for a panel discussion with the author and I am so happy I did because I think I enjoyed it a lot more the second time around. If you are looking to read a book that is a love letter to New York, of a girl who is trying to find her creative identity.
I definitely enjoyed this the second time around.
You know that book that you pick up thinking you would love but it just falls short? This is one of them.
In Zainab Takes New York we meet twenty-something-year-old Zainab who recently moves to New York and is working as an intern at an illustration company. Zainab starts hearing voices, at first there were few but then they become three and they do not stop. Zainab doesn't know what to make of this and is unable to pay for therapy because she is not able afford it. We are taken on an adventure as Zainab tries to find herself, explore New York and learn more about herself.
Honestly, this one did not hit the mark for me. The plot felt underdeveloped, the main character was not interesting, and overall the book felt rushed.
May 31, 2021
“I wanted to simultaneously laugh and cry. I was being killed and reborn, with a stranger for a midwife."
The story follows Zainab Sekyi, a 21-year old international student from Ghana on her move to New York for graduate school. Although embarking on the journey alone, she’s accompanied spiritually by her ancestors Fati, Zeina and Jamila. Physically, she also finds support in a couple of family members residing in the Bronx, an old friend, a new roommate and a handful of questionable suitors. She’s lost, on a man hunt and in need of a couple reality checks - but this is no ordinary NA fiction tale.
Ayesha has a way of writing that makes it hard to put the book down. The story was absolutely engrossing and at times, hilarious. I naturally completed it in one sitting. Zainab navigated the struggles of starting a career, a sexual debut and finding her way outside of the expectations of her family, both rooted in the traditions and religions under which she grew.
I was captivated by the focus on ancestral ties and juju. Zainab developed a real relationship with her ancestors, who consequentially trusted her with hidden family secrets. They also offered varying advice that reflected the different eras and societal influences they grew up under. Nonetheless, despite their differing perspectives. their unwavering support of Zainab was visible. I honestly think that everyone needs a Fati and Jamila on their shoulders.
Ayesha covered the hardships of living abroad and the solace that can be found in others during difficult times; home isn’t just a physical place. She also delivered insights to different generational struggles for Ghanaians, touching on LGBTQ+ issues briefly, but with enough details to let the reader fill in the gap themselves.
I love reading Ayesha’s work and learning more about Ghanaian culture and traditions through tales of strong, female leads who don’t need men to build their story lines. The men often act as catalysts, but are side characters at best (although I can’t lie, I did love Kweku). The book is a light-hearted, engaging read I absolutely recommend.
Another 5/5.
Thank you to Netgalley for the Arc in return for an honest review.
The story follows Zainab Sekyi, a 21-year old international student from Ghana on her move to New York for graduate school. Although embarking on the journey alone, she’s accompanied spiritually by her ancestors Fati, Zeina and Jamila. Physically, she also finds support in a couple of family members residing in the Bronx, an old friend, a new roommate and a handful of questionable suitors. She’s lost, on a man hunt and in need of a couple reality checks - but this is no ordinary NA fiction tale.
Ayesha has a way of writing that makes it hard to put the book down. The story was absolutely engrossing and at times, hilarious. I naturally completed it in one sitting. Zainab navigated the struggles of starting a career, a sexual debut and finding her way outside of the expectations of her family, both rooted in the traditions and religions under which she grew.
I was captivated by the focus on ancestral ties and juju. Zainab developed a real relationship with her ancestors, who consequentially trusted her with hidden family secrets. They also offered varying advice that reflected the different eras and societal influences they grew up under. Nonetheless, despite their differing perspectives. their unwavering support of Zainab was visible. I honestly think that everyone needs a Fati and Jamila on their shoulders.
Ayesha covered the hardships of living abroad and the solace that can be found in others during difficult times; home isn’t just a physical place. She also delivered insights to different generational struggles for Ghanaians, touching on LGBTQ+ issues briefly, but with enough details to let the reader fill in the gap themselves.
I love reading Ayesha’s work and learning more about Ghanaian culture and traditions through tales of strong, female leads who don’t need men to build their story lines. The men often act as catalysts, but are side characters at best (although I can’t lie, I did love Kweku). The book is a light-hearted, engaging read I absolutely recommend.
Another 5/5.
Thank you to Netgalley for the Arc in return for an honest review.
August 10, 2021
2 stars & dnf at 74%
I genuinely could not get into this book. I appreciate a character who’s flawed but Zainab was annoying and the grammatical errors made it impossible to enjoy. If you’re asexual or aromatic, you probably won’t enjoy this.
• Zainab loosing her virginity was ALL SHE TALKED ABOUT. I just could not take it anymore. She moved to New York to loose her virginity and “learn to fly”. It was ridiculous.
• A character said it’s pathetic that she’s 20 and still a virgin.
• Zainab falls in love with a guy she’s known for three weeks and flings herself into bed, sobs at a club and acts like a teenager when he breaks up with her.
• The quotations and sometimes lack of italics made it hard to know when I was reading a text message or her thoughts. And it was throughout the entire book. The text messages were part of paragraphs which is why it was hard to know if it was Zainabs thoughts.
•I was very annoyed with how badly she wants to have sex and how she talks about becoming herself in New York , it was ridiculous. The entire book!!!!
* I received this arc from Netgalley *
I genuinely could not get into this book. I appreciate a character who’s flawed but Zainab was annoying and the grammatical errors made it impossible to enjoy. If you’re asexual or aromatic, you probably won’t enjoy this.
• Zainab loosing her virginity was ALL SHE TALKED ABOUT. I just could not take it anymore. She moved to New York to loose her virginity and “learn to fly”. It was ridiculous.
• A character said it’s pathetic that she’s 20 and still a virgin.
• Zainab falls in love with a guy she’s known for three weeks and flings herself into bed, sobs at a club and acts like a teenager when he breaks up with her.
• The quotations and sometimes lack of italics made it hard to know when I was reading a text message or her thoughts. And it was throughout the entire book. The text messages were part of paragraphs which is why it was hard to know if it was Zainabs thoughts.
•I was very annoyed with how badly she wants to have sex and how she talks about becoming herself in New York , it was ridiculous. The entire book!!!!
* I received this arc from Netgalley *
December 6, 2022
Disclaimer: I receive a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Thank you, @definitelyboks, for this copy! #pansing
“I let my sadness climb out of my chest and cloak out its rough woolliness over my whole body. I cried quietly, and Aliya and Mary Grace held me tight, in the way only girls know how to take care of each other.”
I am disappointed this did not meet my expectations.
The plotline did not have a strong purpose.
Yes, the point of Zainab's story was to follow her journey, but there wasn't any deep content throughout the journey.
I love that each chapter has its title, and we follow a certain scene and situation of what Zainab is going through, but it feels like the storyline brushes through to the next chapter without so much explanation or depth.
There are times I could relate to what Zainab goes through with her family, her trying to find herself and her relationship with her friends and new people.
I didn't feel an attachment to Zainab, it is a coming out plotline but it feels like we didn't feel that growth until the end when it suddenly happened.
Thank you, @definitelyboks, for this copy! #pansing
“I let my sadness climb out of my chest and cloak out its rough woolliness over my whole body. I cried quietly, and Aliya and Mary Grace held me tight, in the way only girls know how to take care of each other.”
I am disappointed this did not meet my expectations.
The plotline did not have a strong purpose.
Yes, the point of Zainab's story was to follow her journey, but there wasn't any deep content throughout the journey.
I love that each chapter has its title, and we follow a certain scene and situation of what Zainab is going through, but it feels like the storyline brushes through to the next chapter without so much explanation or depth.
There are times I could relate to what Zainab goes through with her family, her trying to find herself and her relationship with her friends and new people.
I didn't feel an attachment to Zainab, it is a coming out plotline but it feels like we didn't feel that growth until the end when it suddenly happened.
July 30, 2021
✨2/5 Rating✨
Spoilers & Thoughts Below!!
•This was an okay read, unfortunately though it just didn’t hit the mark for me. I was a bit bored and just really couldn’t connect with the storyline or character.
•The writing wasn’t the strongest as there were moments that felt choppy and just didn’t seem to flow.
•The overall story and plot development was a bit lackluster and bland as well.
•Zainab, who was the main character was a bit annoying with how naive and selfish she was at times. There was also a huge lack of character development.
•Unfortunately, I did find myself skimming through the last few chapters just to finish.
•I will say however, that there were a few enjoyable aspects of this book that I did like which included, the LGTBQ representation, Zainab navigating New York, and hearing her three female ancestors voices.
•Overall, I think the idea of this book was just okay, it sadly just wasn’t for me.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.**
Spoilers & Thoughts Below!!
•This was an okay read, unfortunately though it just didn’t hit the mark for me. I was a bit bored and just really couldn’t connect with the storyline or character.
•The writing wasn’t the strongest as there were moments that felt choppy and just didn’t seem to flow.
•The overall story and plot development was a bit lackluster and bland as well.
•Zainab, who was the main character was a bit annoying with how naive and selfish she was at times. There was also a huge lack of character development.
•Unfortunately, I did find myself skimming through the last few chapters just to finish.
•I will say however, that there were a few enjoyable aspects of this book that I did like which included, the LGTBQ representation, Zainab navigating New York, and hearing her three female ancestors voices.
•Overall, I think the idea of this book was just okay, it sadly just wasn’t for me.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.**
March 31, 2022
Recensione presente nel blog www.ragazzainrosso.wordpress.com
3.5 stelline
Dopo aver vissuto una vita intera in Ghana, la giovane Zainab, aspirante fumettista, parte alla volta di New York per svolgere uno stage universitario. La città che l’accoglie è completamente diversa dall’ambiente nel quale è cresciuta e Zainab è decisa a prendere il meglio da questa esperienza, vuole sentirsi simile ai suoi coetanei, andare a ballare, frequentare i ragazzi, essere il pi possibile coinvolta dal clima della metropoli americana. A guidarla saranno tre originale spiriti guida, Zainab, infatti, sente costantemente la voce delle sue antenate, le quali, però, sembrano intenzionate a frenarla in ogni passo.
“L’indomani, dopo il viaggio più lungo della mia vita, scendo dalla metro all’incrocio tra la Trentatreesima strada e Park Avenue e resto un attimo lì, come nei film – ad assorbire il nuovo mondo che mi aspetta.”
Desiderosa di conoscere una realtà diametralmente opposta a quella del Ghana, Zainab non esita a prendere in mano le redini della sua vita e a partire. Il viaggio che compirà la farà crescere sia dal punto di vista universitario sia personale. La giovane dimostra di possedere una grande determinazione che l’ha spinta prima a intraprendere un percorso di studi lontano dalle aspettative familiari sia a scegliere di trasferirsi in un contesto nuovo.
La metropoli di New York è certamente fulcro della scena narrativa con i suoi locali alla moda e i suoi abitanti molti dei quali un po’ sopra le righe. Personalmente ho apprezzato il viaggio compiuto dalla protagonista che s’immerge nel clima newyorkese tra esperienze positive e negative mentre ho trovato un po’ ridondante l��ossessione della protagonista nei confronti del sesso e del voler avere una relazione a tutti i costi.
Ben costruite sono le tre antenate africane, tre donne diverse, sulle quali aleggia un certo mistero, le cui voci sono sempre presenti attraverso consigli, talora tra di loro contraddittori, che regalano brio alla narrazione.
Lo stile della prosa è semplice, diretto e scorrevole. L’autrice inserisce numerosi riferimenti agli usi e costumi ghanesi che contribuiscono a rendere la trama ancor più realistica e a coinvolgere il lettore.
Un romanzo che con leggerezza mostra le differenze culturali tra un territorio dalla mentalità aperta (qual è New York) e uno altamente tradizionale (il Ghana) anche per quanto riguarda la condizione femminile. Una lettura che è un inno alla forza dei sogni da realizzare.
3.5 stelline
Dopo aver vissuto una vita intera in Ghana, la giovane Zainab, aspirante fumettista, parte alla volta di New York per svolgere uno stage universitario. La città che l’accoglie è completamente diversa dall’ambiente nel quale è cresciuta e Zainab è decisa a prendere il meglio da questa esperienza, vuole sentirsi simile ai suoi coetanei, andare a ballare, frequentare i ragazzi, essere il pi possibile coinvolta dal clima della metropoli americana. A guidarla saranno tre originale spiriti guida, Zainab, infatti, sente costantemente la voce delle sue antenate, le quali, però, sembrano intenzionate a frenarla in ogni passo.
“L’indomani, dopo il viaggio più lungo della mia vita, scendo dalla metro all’incrocio tra la Trentatreesima strada e Park Avenue e resto un attimo lì, come nei film – ad assorbire il nuovo mondo che mi aspetta.”
Desiderosa di conoscere una realtà diametralmente opposta a quella del Ghana, Zainab non esita a prendere in mano le redini della sua vita e a partire. Il viaggio che compirà la farà crescere sia dal punto di vista universitario sia personale. La giovane dimostra di possedere una grande determinazione che l’ha spinta prima a intraprendere un percorso di studi lontano dalle aspettative familiari sia a scegliere di trasferirsi in un contesto nuovo.
La metropoli di New York è certamente fulcro della scena narrativa con i suoi locali alla moda e i suoi abitanti molti dei quali un po’ sopra le righe. Personalmente ho apprezzato il viaggio compiuto dalla protagonista che s’immerge nel clima newyorkese tra esperienze positive e negative mentre ho trovato un po’ ridondante l��ossessione della protagonista nei confronti del sesso e del voler avere una relazione a tutti i costi.
Ben costruite sono le tre antenate africane, tre donne diverse, sulle quali aleggia un certo mistero, le cui voci sono sempre presenti attraverso consigli, talora tra di loro contraddittori, che regalano brio alla narrazione.
Lo stile della prosa è semplice, diretto e scorrevole. L’autrice inserisce numerosi riferimenti agli usi e costumi ghanesi che contribuiscono a rendere la trama ancor più realistica e a coinvolgere il lettore.
Un romanzo che con leggerezza mostra le differenze culturali tra un territorio dalla mentalità aperta (qual è New York) e uno altamente tradizionale (il Ghana) anche per quanto riguarda la condizione femminile. Una lettura che è un inno alla forza dei sogni da realizzare.
April 9, 2024
Zainab’s lifelong dream is to become an illustrator and so in order to do that, she makes a plan to move from her town in Ghana to the big city that is New York. There she makes new friends and is reacquainted with old ones, shaping the way of her new life. To add to it all, her love life is chaotic and she begins to hear the voices of her ancestors in her head. These three distinct voices soon help her be her guide, if she chooses to listen to them. For a debut novel, this was really clever and well written. There were elements this reader really enjoyed, they just needed more of a polishing. The overall plot of our main character, Zainab, moving to the big city to find herself, only to be met with ancestral voices put such a fun spin on a story that has been told many times before. The reader really enjoyed getting to know, not only the three voices, but through them we got to know Zainab better, too. It led to some really entertaining scenes and great character development all while feeling really heartwarming. What the reader could have left behind was the insistent need Zainab felt for losing her virginity. It got to the point where the reader was like can it happen already so we can stop talking about it – but then it did happen and we were still talking about. Yes, this was a big turning point for Zainab, the reader understood that, but it didn’t feel like it was necessary to keep coming back to it. It was like the author was trying to write a romance, but the scenes were sprinkled in and they didn’t have a lot spark most of the time, so it was a little lacklustre to read. The reader will say though, some of it was very relatable. There were moments throughout that the reader found a little clunky to read, but as this was this author’s debut, it leaves room for improvement and to get better and this reader would love to see where Attah’s writing goes from here. As for the characters, they were fun and well developed. The reader liked how each of them had their own story and how their stories found their way being incorporated into Zainab’s story. The way they were all so connected and there for each other, even at the worst of times, sometimes. It was nice to read about this community of friends who they could all count on, who were trying to make a way for themselves, it was very uplifting to read. The different characters all had these little quirks to them that made them memorable, especially Zainab’s new friend Mary Grace, she was hilarious yet supportive. The reader wasn’t sure how this was all going to wrap up, but it did a good job of bringing everything full circle and in a happy way. It made it so that things were on the road to being better and brighter without telling too much or leaving it ambiguous. In the end, a well written novel that had a lot of heart and potential.
April 14, 2022
Zainab moves to New York City to complete a three-month internship before attending a masters program at an art school. She’s originally from Ghana, is somewhat naïve, but is eager and open to new experiences, wanting to shed her old self.
She reunites with two of her Ghanaian friends, both of whom she’s known from childhood, becomes friends with her roommate, and falls in love. Zainab also makes many mistakes, but gains a better understanding of her friends and herself through the words of three of her wise ancestors, and begins to grow into who she wants to be.
It’s a cheerful, hopeful book. Zainab’s humour and openness to everything make her a fun character to follow, and her occasional stumbles in her relationships, as well as her heartbreak over a failed romance remind me of how much fun being twenty-one could be, as Zainab navigates the freedom of adulthood in a new country and city.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Headline for this ARC in exchange for my review.
She reunites with two of her Ghanaian friends, both of whom she’s known from childhood, becomes friends with her roommate, and falls in love. Zainab also makes many mistakes, but gains a better understanding of her friends and herself through the words of three of her wise ancestors, and begins to grow into who she wants to be.
It’s a cheerful, hopeful book. Zainab’s humour and openness to everything make her a fun character to follow, and her occasional stumbles in her relationships, as well as her heartbreak over a failed romance remind me of how much fun being twenty-one could be, as Zainab navigates the freedom of adulthood in a new country and city.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Headline for this ARC in exchange for my review.
July 4, 2022
Immaginate di leggere un romanzo con protagonista una Carrie Bradshaw un po' naive di origini Ghanesi: non sarebbe una figata ultracosmica?
Ovviamente, sì.
Zainab ha 21 anni, ed è appena arrivata nella grande mela, dove seguirà uno stage in una CE come fumettista. Originaria del Ghana, Zainab è cresciuta in una famiglia conservativa, musulmana e cattolica: adattarsi non sarà facile.
Tra amicizie, nuovi amori e coinquiline strampalate, Zainab vive la grande avventura newyorchese che tutti sognano. Per aggungere stramberie alle stramberie, Zainab inizia a sentire le voci delle sue antenate, che giudicano ogni sua azione.
Di questo libro ho apprezzato davvero tanto la freschezza di un personaggio diverso, appartenente ad una minoranza, che ci fa sentire l'estraineità che qualsiasi emigrato sente quando si trova alle prese con nuova realtà. La leggerezza tipica dei romcom poi, ha reso il tutto frizzante e mai noioso. Unico appunto: la fine un po’ troppo affrettata.
Insomma, una chicca da non perdere, sopratutto se come me, siete dei nostalgici di Sex and the City.
Ovviamente, sì.
Zainab ha 21 anni, ed è appena arrivata nella grande mela, dove seguirà uno stage in una CE come fumettista. Originaria del Ghana, Zainab è cresciuta in una famiglia conservativa, musulmana e cattolica: adattarsi non sarà facile.
Tra amicizie, nuovi amori e coinquiline strampalate, Zainab vive la grande avventura newyorchese che tutti sognano. Per aggungere stramberie alle stramberie, Zainab inizia a sentire le voci delle sue antenate, che giudicano ogni sua azione.
Di questo libro ho apprezzato davvero tanto la freschezza di un personaggio diverso, appartenente ad una minoranza, che ci fa sentire l'estraineità che qualsiasi emigrato sente quando si trova alle prese con nuova realtà. La leggerezza tipica dei romcom poi, ha reso il tutto frizzante e mai noioso. Unico appunto: la fine un po’ troppo affrettata.
Insomma, una chicca da non perdere, sopratutto se come me, siete dei nostalgici di Sex and the City.
May 28, 2025
I was not a big fan of the ancestors angle but it was a good read nonetheless.
August 24, 2024
Aggiornamento di lettura pagina 112/363.
Avevo il desiderio di una storia a più voci che parlasse di identità e conflitto intergenerazionale, incuriosita che questo si svolgesse nella testa della protagonista.
Zainab è una giovane donna ghanese che sta per cominciare uno stage da illustratrice a New York, ma non riesce più a disegnare. E tre misteriose voci si sono insinuate nella sua testa a commentare ogni suo passo. Chi sono queste sconosciute? Le antenate dall'oltretomba: donne, vissuti e identità mai raccontate in famiglia con cui Zainab dovrà fare i conti, raccogliendo la loro eredità per riuscire a essere chi vuole.
L'idea è interessante: le nostre radici ci ossessionano. Ma il dialogo interiore è poco scavato, davanti allo sforzo di mantenere l'atmosfera sempre godibile. Mi aspettavo una introspezione solida che sostenesse le premesse: la ricerca di sé.
Avevo il desiderio di una storia a più voci che parlasse di identità e conflitto intergenerazionale, incuriosita che questo si svolgesse nella testa della protagonista.
Zainab è una giovane donna ghanese che sta per cominciare uno stage da illustratrice a New York, ma non riesce più a disegnare. E tre misteriose voci si sono insinuate nella sua testa a commentare ogni suo passo. Chi sono queste sconosciute? Le antenate dall'oltretomba: donne, vissuti e identità mai raccontate in famiglia con cui Zainab dovrà fare i conti, raccogliendo la loro eredità per riuscire a essere chi vuole.
L'idea è interessante: le nostre radici ci ossessionano. Ma il dialogo interiore è poco scavato, davanti allo sforzo di mantenere l'atmosfera sempre godibile. Mi aspettavo una introspezione solida che sostenesse le premesse: la ricerca di sé.
April 24, 2022
“Qui finalmente mi sento bene nella mia pelle. Anche quando succede qualcosa di spiacevole, riesco a scrollarmelo di dosso. Non devo sempre far finta di essere qualcun altro per compiacere la gente. Sto finalmente imparando a volare.”
•Zainab conquista New York• è un romanzo fresco e moderno che racconta un periodo della vita di una giovane ragazza di origini ghanesi che si ritrova a coronare il suo sogno di vivere a New York. Da grande vorrebbe fare l’illustratrice, ma ha qualche dubbio sul suo talento. L’estate a New York le permette di fare uno stage prima di iniziare un master, e lei ha intenzione di sfruttare questo periodo per vivere appieno la sua giovinezza e finalmente innamorarsi. Quello che però non si aspetta e che le sue antenate decideranno di farle compagnia in una maniera un po’ particolare mettendo bocca su ogni cosa che le accade.
É stata una lettura divertente che mi ha riportata in qualche modo a qualche anno fa, con pensieri che alla fine credo non vadano mai del tutto via, ovvero chiedersi se quello che stiamo facendo è la cosa giusta, e se la vita che viviamo va bene per noi. Possiamo definirlo una sorta di romanzo di formazione per il periodo che racconta, ma credo che possa essere un piacevole intermezzo e una lettura di grande compagnia.
Molto presente anche una questione importante ovvero il fatto di ritrovarsi nel mezzo tra la sua cultura di origine e la cultura americana e quindi il suo futuro.
La protagonista si è allontanata un po’ da quelle che sono le tradizioni ghanesi e anche dalla religione, ma allo stesso tempo sente un legame con le sue radici e non vuole del tutto abbandonarle. Così come si ritrova a suo agio in alcuni modi di fare americani ma non capisce altri. E questo penso sia un qualcosa di estremamente attuale…con la globalizzazione e con il fatto che ci siano tante persone che nonostante le proprie origini scelgono di vivere da un’altra parte, di allontanarsi in qualche modo, senza però rinnegarle.
Anche lo stile è frizzante e fresco, e questo mi è piaciuto molto perché si adatta perfettamente ai nostri tempi.L’unico neo che potrei sottolineare è il fatto che la questione delle voci che Zainab sente viene trattata in un modo un po’ superficiale in alcuni punti. Avrei preferito forse da questo punto di vista un approfondimento maggiore, o più che altro una reazione più realistica da parte della protagonista, che invece liquida la questione in una maniera ,secondo me ,troppo veloce.
•Zainab conquista New York• è un romanzo fresco e moderno che racconta un periodo della vita di una giovane ragazza di origini ghanesi che si ritrova a coronare il suo sogno di vivere a New York. Da grande vorrebbe fare l’illustratrice, ma ha qualche dubbio sul suo talento. L’estate a New York le permette di fare uno stage prima di iniziare un master, e lei ha intenzione di sfruttare questo periodo per vivere appieno la sua giovinezza e finalmente innamorarsi. Quello che però non si aspetta e che le sue antenate decideranno di farle compagnia in una maniera un po’ particolare mettendo bocca su ogni cosa che le accade.
É stata una lettura divertente che mi ha riportata in qualche modo a qualche anno fa, con pensieri che alla fine credo non vadano mai del tutto via, ovvero chiedersi se quello che stiamo facendo è la cosa giusta, e se la vita che viviamo va bene per noi. Possiamo definirlo una sorta di romanzo di formazione per il periodo che racconta, ma credo che possa essere un piacevole intermezzo e una lettura di grande compagnia.
Molto presente anche una questione importante ovvero il fatto di ritrovarsi nel mezzo tra la sua cultura di origine e la cultura americana e quindi il suo futuro.
La protagonista si è allontanata un po’ da quelle che sono le tradizioni ghanesi e anche dalla religione, ma allo stesso tempo sente un legame con le sue radici e non vuole del tutto abbandonarle. Così come si ritrova a suo agio in alcuni modi di fare americani ma non capisce altri. E questo penso sia un qualcosa di estremamente attuale…con la globalizzazione e con il fatto che ci siano tante persone che nonostante le proprie origini scelgono di vivere da un’altra parte, di allontanarsi in qualche modo, senza però rinnegarle.
Anche lo stile è frizzante e fresco, e questo mi è piaciuto molto perché si adatta perfettamente ai nostri tempi.L’unico neo che potrei sottolineare è il fatto che la questione delle voci che Zainab sente viene trattata in un modo un po’ superficiale in alcuni punti. Avrei preferito forse da questo punto di vista un approfondimento maggiore, o più che altro una reazione più realistica da parte della protagonista, che invece liquida la questione in una maniera ,secondo me ,troppo veloce.
August 16, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and Headline Accent for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. Here is that review:
3 stars
Zainab is out of undergrad, working a new job, looking for a place to live (several places to live, as it turns out), seeking a partner, and generally trying to win that early 20s New York state of mind. She does all of this with the voices of her ancestors repeatedly offering their opinions...in her head.
In looking at the cover and reading the description, I thought I was jumping into women's fiction or perhaps general fiction, but I believe this book - and potential readers of it - would benefit from reconsidering this piece as new adult. As part of this genre, it is quite successful. It runs a bit young and frustrating (in terms of Zainab's constant processing of what feel like basic issues in her life) for other genres.
At 20 going on 21, Zainab struggles with many aspects of life that most readers will find relatable. However, there are some areas in which she might be considered a bit naive (family relationships, friendships, and definitely romantic relationships). The inclusion of her grandmothers' opinions and advice plays nicely with her coming-of-age story and with her attempt to find herself in her work (an intern for an advice column and beyond). There's a freshness to this traditional trope that I quite enjoy.
For me, this was a bit slow and anticlimactic overall, and I really do think the powers that be should reconsider the ways in which this book is being marketed. Prospective readers who come in thinking that they are getting a more traditional new adult book (frustratingly naive, train wreck-style m.c. included) may find themselves more satisfied than those with other ideas.
3 stars
Zainab is out of undergrad, working a new job, looking for a place to live (several places to live, as it turns out), seeking a partner, and generally trying to win that early 20s New York state of mind. She does all of this with the voices of her ancestors repeatedly offering their opinions...in her head.
In looking at the cover and reading the description, I thought I was jumping into women's fiction or perhaps general fiction, but I believe this book - and potential readers of it - would benefit from reconsidering this piece as new adult. As part of this genre, it is quite successful. It runs a bit young and frustrating (in terms of Zainab's constant processing of what feel like basic issues in her life) for other genres.
At 20 going on 21, Zainab struggles with many aspects of life that most readers will find relatable. However, there are some areas in which she might be considered a bit naive (family relationships, friendships, and definitely romantic relationships). The inclusion of her grandmothers' opinions and advice plays nicely with her coming-of-age story and with her attempt to find herself in her work (an intern for an advice column and beyond). There's a freshness to this traditional trope that I quite enjoy.
For me, this was a bit slow and anticlimactic overall, and I really do think the powers that be should reconsider the ways in which this book is being marketed. Prospective readers who come in thinking that they are getting a more traditional new adult book (frustratingly naive, train wreck-style m.c. included) may find themselves more satisfied than those with other ideas.
April 15, 2023
Found myself rather unable to put this book down (more like un-wanting, actually). The story flowed well and I wanted to know what was going to happen, answers to the questions that were raised throughout, what was actually going on. So on that note, it kept me going and was very entertaining.
However, things that put me off (I'm not sure if I'd have picked this one up had I known) - it's very much a YA/NA book, seeing how Zainab is just 20 in there. I had to force myself to remember this many times as she just acted so naive and almost childish in places (yes, you're grown at 20, I know - I thought so too myself at that age...but growing older does show you how little you actually knew back then, if that little was a lot for your age). Second, this is set in 2006. I won't say I consider this 'not present times' but I'm not a fan of 'past' timelines unless they're really historical ones, so pet peeve of mine here, had to remind myself of that time frame many times throughout, too.
And then the thing that really took away the fifth star on this review? There could've been 'more' - the whole book told us/recounted how those three months happened in New York in Zainab's life, but what about what going on inside Zainab, too? The introspection felt fleeting at times, almost shying away from, and I wanted to delve into that, to 'be' this person and not just be reading their POV
Still, it's a good, entertaining tale, very relatable for people who come from conservative cultures and probably eye-opening for those not from such cultures. It's a good book to pass the time, I'll definitely give it that!
However, things that put me off (I'm not sure if I'd have picked this one up had I known) - it's very much a YA/NA book, seeing how Zainab is just 20 in there. I had to force myself to remember this many times as she just acted so naive and almost childish in places (yes, you're grown at 20, I know - I thought so too myself at that age...but growing older does show you how little you actually knew back then, if that little was a lot for your age). Second, this is set in 2006. I won't say I consider this 'not present times' but I'm not a fan of 'past' timelines unless they're really historical ones, so pet peeve of mine here, had to remind myself of that time frame many times throughout, too.
And then the thing that really took away the fifth star on this review? There could've been 'more' - the whole book told us/recounted how those three months happened in New York in Zainab's life, but what about what going on inside Zainab, too? The introspection felt fleeting at times, almost shying away from, and I wanted to delve into that, to 'be' this person and not just be reading their POV
Still, it's a good, entertaining tale, very relatable for people who come from conservative cultures and probably eye-opening for those not from such cultures. It's a good book to pass the time, I'll definitely give it that!
July 26, 2022
è il 2006, Zainab è appena arrivata a New York e deve districarsi fra uno stage, incontri romantici e la prospettiva di crescere e diventare indipendenti...
Avevo alte aspettative riguardo Zainab conquista New York, perchè dalla trama mi ricordava un mix fra Sex and the city e Il diavolo veste Prada.
E non è un brutto libro, davvero, è solo che con me non è scattata la scintilla.
Zainab è una ragazza di origini ghanesi che, come tutti i giovani del 2006 e di oggi, cerca di barcamenarsi nella vita tentando di trovare il suo posto nel mondo, preoccupandosi di un lavoro a lungo termine e un'autonomia che spera di avere. Nel farlo sperimenta, fa errori, stringe amicizie e le rompe, incontra uomini, di cui alcuni le piacciono e altri la deludono, ritrova persone perdute e mantiene i contatti con la famiglia.
Mi è piaciuto come l'autrice abbia riassunto bene il mondo in cui noi giovani ci muoviamo e ho adorato come la cultura di Zainab filtrasse fra le pagine, perchè mi ha permesso di apprendere cose che non sapevo.
Narrando la vita quotidiana di un personaggio giovane e appartenente ad una minoranza l'autrice ha raccontato dello spaesamento che può produrre immergersi in un nuovo mondo e lo ha fatto in modo fresco e divertente, genuino.
Il mio problema infatti non è stato nè con lo stile nè con la storia, ma ho avuto difficoltà con il carattere di Zainab.
Molto spesso, soprattutto nel suo approccio con i ragazzi e le amiche, l'ho trovata fastidiosa, un po' infantile e difficile da sopportare.
Il tutto funziona nel grande disegno del libro, perchè alla fine è un romanzo di formazione, ma io non ce l'ho fatta e, purtroppo, le mie divergenze con Zainab mi hanno "guastato" la lettura di tutto il libro.
In tal caso, però, il problema sono io, non il libro! Sono sicura possa piacere a tantissime persone, sia per i temi trattati che per lo stile utilizzato.
Avevo alte aspettative riguardo Zainab conquista New York, perchè dalla trama mi ricordava un mix fra Sex and the city e Il diavolo veste Prada.
E non è un brutto libro, davvero, è solo che con me non è scattata la scintilla.
Zainab è una ragazza di origini ghanesi che, come tutti i giovani del 2006 e di oggi, cerca di barcamenarsi nella vita tentando di trovare il suo posto nel mondo, preoccupandosi di un lavoro a lungo termine e un'autonomia che spera di avere. Nel farlo sperimenta, fa errori, stringe amicizie e le rompe, incontra uomini, di cui alcuni le piacciono e altri la deludono, ritrova persone perdute e mantiene i contatti con la famiglia.
Mi è piaciuto come l'autrice abbia riassunto bene il mondo in cui noi giovani ci muoviamo e ho adorato come la cultura di Zainab filtrasse fra le pagine, perchè mi ha permesso di apprendere cose che non sapevo.
Narrando la vita quotidiana di un personaggio giovane e appartenente ad una minoranza l'autrice ha raccontato dello spaesamento che può produrre immergersi in un nuovo mondo e lo ha fatto in modo fresco e divertente, genuino.
Il mio problema infatti non è stato nè con lo stile nè con la storia, ma ho avuto difficoltà con il carattere di Zainab.
Molto spesso, soprattutto nel suo approccio con i ragazzi e le amiche, l'ho trovata fastidiosa, un po' infantile e difficile da sopportare.
Il tutto funziona nel grande disegno del libro, perchè alla fine è un romanzo di formazione, ma io non ce l'ho fatta e, purtroppo, le mie divergenze con Zainab mi hanno "guastato" la lettura di tutto il libro.
In tal caso, però, il problema sono io, non il libro! Sono sicura possa piacere a tantissime persone, sia per i temi trattati che per lo stile utilizzato.
June 14, 2022
Digital ARC provided by Netgalley
Indeed a book that could have developed more the character of Zainab. When Zainab moves from Ghana to New York she starts hearing the voices of some of her ancestors: 3 powerful women from her family.
I kept reading until finishing the book only due to the fact that I liked the factor of psychogenealogy. It seems that Zainab is not as free as she might think as she is largely influenced by her family story and the complex links that have formed from generation to generation. The entire novel is constructed around this circle and even if the character was not one that I might have enjoyed, the story was pretty interesting to follow how the “aunties” dictate or criticize their ancestor behavior and actions.
Indeed a book that could have developed more the character of Zainab. When Zainab moves from Ghana to New York she starts hearing the voices of some of her ancestors: 3 powerful women from her family.
I kept reading until finishing the book only due to the fact that I liked the factor of psychogenealogy. It seems that Zainab is not as free as she might think as she is largely influenced by her family story and the complex links that have formed from generation to generation. The entire novel is constructed around this circle and even if the character was not one that I might have enjoyed, the story was pretty interesting to follow how the “aunties” dictate or criticize their ancestor behavior and actions.
July 30, 2025
The book was great for the summer when I want something light hearted to read. I picked it up because I’m enjoying exploring authors of colour and especially those who write about the expat/immigrant experience. African, Asian and Arab cultures are so similar - so the references made to cultural expectations landed well. The only thing missing is depth for the protagonist, in my opinion. I know how I feel about the supporting characters. I know the types of people that Densua, Kweku, MG, and Alex are but I feel like I still haven’t made up my mind about Zainab herself because there was so much more depth that could have been brought into it.
April 19, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC copy of this book for my honest review!
I really wanted to love this book! I did enjoy it and appreciate the story, I just felt like it was too predictable and a little rushed at the end. I wish we could've learned more about what happened in Zainab's future, but maybe the author was giving space to come up with a second book! I would read more, just to see if Zainab truly captures her version of the American dream!
I really wanted to love this book! I did enjoy it and appreciate the story, I just felt like it was too predictable and a little rushed at the end. I wish we could've learned more about what happened in Zainab's future, but maybe the author was giving space to come up with a second book! I would read more, just to see if Zainab truly captures her version of the American dream!
August 31, 2022
Quanto mi ha fatto ridere a bocca larga, ma anche a denti stretti. Zainab è una protagonista ironica, che affronta un trasferimento a New York, per poter fare uno stage come fumettista. Ma mentre vive la sua vita, tra mille ostacoli, sul divano a casa degli zii, vengono a trovarla la mamma (in carne e ossa) e le sue antenate dal Ghana, sotto forma di voci nella sua testa. Si legge velocemente e si ride tanto.
August 27, 2021
This book deals with Zainab and her journey in NY. I was a bit surprised to find that the book read more NA than women’s fiction or general fiction, but ultimately my issue with the book was that I found our protagonist to be quite annoying. I know being young and having some (irrelevant) things be utter priority is truthful, but it got really annoying fast. There were sparks of brightness here and there and I enjoyed the ancestors angle but overall this was a book I struggled to read and finish.
Thank you to the Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC.
Thank you to the Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC.
June 15, 2022
Recensione completa -> https://thebooksblender.altervista.or...
July 21, 2022
Una commedia romantica, un chicklit e un New adult con una protagonista ghanese e le sue ave che le chiacchierano in testa. Un'ottima idea, una lettura piacevole e diversa!
November 3, 2024
A nice read, liked the idea. Nothing mindblowing but easy to read
October 19, 2022
The reason I requested this is because I have a friend by the same name and was tickled by the title! *priorities* Unfortunately, this was just an okay read for me.
This story follows Zainab who had recently moved to New York for an internship in an illustration company. As Zainab began to find her footing in a new city, she starts hearing voices in her head, constantly nagging at her and giving her unsolicited advice. Zainab tried to ignore these voices but they were persistent. It turns out these voices are her ancestors! Zainab doesn’t know what to make of these voices and she didn’t tell anyone about it for fear of sounding too crazy. She takes us on an adventure of self-discovery as she explores herself and what she is looking for in life.
The whole concept is interesting enough but the plot felt underwhelming and could be developed more. I just couldn’t connect with Zainab’s character. She was annoying and whiny but I do admire her strength in picking herself up and constantly trying out new things despite her fear. What I did love was her ancestors’ voices in her head. I love the stories they share and the opinions and advice they gave to Zainab.
Thank you Netgalley and Headline for the arc.
This story follows Zainab who had recently moved to New York for an internship in an illustration company. As Zainab began to find her footing in a new city, she starts hearing voices in her head, constantly nagging at her and giving her unsolicited advice. Zainab tried to ignore these voices but they were persistent. It turns out these voices are her ancestors! Zainab doesn’t know what to make of these voices and she didn’t tell anyone about it for fear of sounding too crazy. She takes us on an adventure of self-discovery as she explores herself and what she is looking for in life.
The whole concept is interesting enough but the plot felt underwhelming and could be developed more. I just couldn’t connect with Zainab’s character. She was annoying and whiny but I do admire her strength in picking herself up and constantly trying out new things despite her fear. What I did love was her ancestors’ voices in her head. I love the stories they share and the opinions and advice they gave to Zainab.
Thank you Netgalley and Headline for the arc.
March 30, 2022
3. 5 stars
Zainab Takes New York explores the life of an international student from Ghana. She has secured an internship in the city and is lookin forward to starting grad school, where she'll take a step further towards becoming a renowned illustrator. The book explores her new beginnings in New York City, as well as her rich family history that predominantly features female ancestors. It also explores female friendships, and love life. The writing style is simple and easy to understand. It was an okay read.
Zainab Takes New York explores the life of an international student from Ghana. She has secured an internship in the city and is lookin forward to starting grad school, where she'll take a step further towards becoming a renowned illustrator. The book explores her new beginnings in New York City, as well as her rich family history that predominantly features female ancestors. It also explores female friendships, and love life. The writing style is simple and easy to understand. It was an okay read.
July 21, 2022
This story was a good read, if you've read any of Ayesha's books you should know that she can write and in this book, she does exactly that.
The story evolves around family, friendship, search for love, self discovery and the whole blend of "Ghanaianess".
Zainab character develops from a timid girl to a girl gets to explore a lot of options and finally comes to terms with what she wants.
It's a fun, interesting read.
The story evolves around family, friendship, search for love, self discovery and the whole blend of "Ghanaianess".
Zainab character develops from a timid girl to a girl gets to explore a lot of options and finally comes to terms with what she wants.
It's a fun, interesting read.
March 15, 2022
Zainab conquista New York è il terzo romanzo dell’autrice ghanese Ayesha Harruna Attah, anche questo pubblicato in Italia da Marcos y Marcos. Ancora una volta, l’autrice si conferma come una delle voci più potenti, più cristalline e allo stesso tempo più dolci della narrativa africana contemporanea.
«Non mi piace separarmi dal mio passaporto. Certo, è uno dei più inutili al mondo – devo chiedere il visto per andare ovunque – ma è tutto quello che ho. Per me, è prezioso»
Zainab conquista New York – Trama
Zainab conquista New York racconta la storia di una giovane Zainab, una ragazza ghanese di appena vent’anni che finalmente corona il suo sogno di andare a vivere a New York. Zainab è attesa in un’importante azienda fumettistica per uno stage estivo, per poi iniziare i corsi alla School of Visual Arts di New York. Nonostante i suoi genitori – rimasti in Ghana – avrebbero voluta vederla come molti suoi connazionali – prima tra tutti la sua migliore amica Densua – lavorare in banca e assicurarsi un futuro sicuro, Zainab non ha rinunciato al suo sogno di diventare una disegnatrice di fumetti, e di creare il suo primo graphic novel proprio lì, a New York, la città che più nel mondo la fa sentire libera di essere se stessa. L’arrivo nella Grande Mela potrebbe essere scoraggiante sotto certi versi: le case in affitto non sono quelle dipinte dalla televisione e dal sogno americano; lo stage si rivela essere l’impiego più noioso di sempre, fatto di scannerizzazioni e poco altro; il 2006 è ancora un periodo storico in cui il crollo delle Torri Gemelle fa guardare con diffidenza gli stranieri e ottenere i visti non è così facile; i parenti del Brox – a eccezione dello zio Ali – non si mostrano così tanto ospitali. Ma Zainab non si scoraggia, New York la fa stare bene e l’inaspettata proposta della “strafiga” Mary Grace – proveniente anche lei dalla stessa cittadina universitaria di Zainab e anche lei straniera trapiantata in America – di diventare coinquiline metterà in moto il cuore degli eventi che scombussoleranno i primi tre mesi di Zainab a New York, lanciandola nei locali notturni, nelle uscite tra amiche, ma soprattutto nella sua prima esperienza sessuale.
Ma non è tutto. Ciò che davvero colora e caratterizza l’esperienza di Zainab a New York sono le tre voci nella sua testa che ha iniziato a sentire proprio dal momento in cui ha messo piede nella metropoli statunitense. Inizialmente Zainab non riesce a spiegarsi cosa le stia succedendo, pensa di aver troppa fame o troppa sete, di essere stanca, di essere impazzita a causa del caldo, ma nessuna spiegazione è sufficiente a far smettere le voci di parlarle. C’è chi la guida con dolcezza, chi l’ammonisce con asprezza e chi cerca di mitigare. Con il passare dei giorni, finalmente Zainab capisce che ha portato con sé, nel suo personale viaggio a New York, un bagaglio molto speciale: quello delle sue antenate.
La trisnonna Jamila, la bisnonna Zeina, la nonna Mma Fati. Sono loro le tre donne che le parlano, la consigliano, l’ammoniscono, la guidano, ma soprattutto la ispirano.
Perché leggerlo
Zainab conquista New York è il racconto romanzato dell’esperienza americana dell’autrice. Come per il suo primo libro, I cento pozzi di Salaga, ispirato alle vicende di una trisavola venduta come schiava, anche in questo libro Ayesha Harruna Attah ci regala degli spaccati della propria vita, della propria storia personale, che si mescola alla storia della sua famiglia per fondersi, infine, nella Storia dell’Africa occidentale. Un dono prezioso che l’autrice ci concede senza riserve, intessendo trame ricche di sensazioni ancestrali, nostalgie generazionali, malinconie che vengono da lontano, cibi speziati che provocano un’immediata acquolina in bocca. Ayesha Harruna Attah, in tutti i suoi libri – e questo terzo ne è la conferma – traccia protagoniste forti, indipendenti, coraggiose, sospinte verso il nuovo e verso l’emancipazione, ma mai disconnesse dalle proprie radici.
Come la stessa autrice racconta, Zainab conquista New York è nato durante il 2020, un anno che ha reso tutti molto più fragili o, quanto meno, ci ha reso consci delle nostre fragilità. Il suo intento, con questo romanzo, era quello di scrivere una storia “feel good” e senza dubbio ci è riuscita.
Zainab conquista New York è un romanzo pieno di amore per la Grande Mela, pieno di amicizia, pieno di sogni che stanno per realizzarsi, pieno di pensieri luminosi che scacciano via quelli tristi. È un libro di cui io avevo immensamente bisogno.
«Non mi piace separarmi dal mio passaporto. Certo, è uno dei più inutili al mondo – devo chiedere il visto per andare ovunque – ma è tutto quello che ho. Per me, è prezioso»
Zainab conquista New York – Trama
Zainab conquista New York racconta la storia di una giovane Zainab, una ragazza ghanese di appena vent’anni che finalmente corona il suo sogno di andare a vivere a New York. Zainab è attesa in un’importante azienda fumettistica per uno stage estivo, per poi iniziare i corsi alla School of Visual Arts di New York. Nonostante i suoi genitori – rimasti in Ghana – avrebbero voluta vederla come molti suoi connazionali – prima tra tutti la sua migliore amica Densua – lavorare in banca e assicurarsi un futuro sicuro, Zainab non ha rinunciato al suo sogno di diventare una disegnatrice di fumetti, e di creare il suo primo graphic novel proprio lì, a New York, la città che più nel mondo la fa sentire libera di essere se stessa. L’arrivo nella Grande Mela potrebbe essere scoraggiante sotto certi versi: le case in affitto non sono quelle dipinte dalla televisione e dal sogno americano; lo stage si rivela essere l’impiego più noioso di sempre, fatto di scannerizzazioni e poco altro; il 2006 è ancora un periodo storico in cui il crollo delle Torri Gemelle fa guardare con diffidenza gli stranieri e ottenere i visti non è così facile; i parenti del Brox – a eccezione dello zio Ali – non si mostrano così tanto ospitali. Ma Zainab non si scoraggia, New York la fa stare bene e l’inaspettata proposta della “strafiga” Mary Grace – proveniente anche lei dalla stessa cittadina universitaria di Zainab e anche lei straniera trapiantata in America – di diventare coinquiline metterà in moto il cuore degli eventi che scombussoleranno i primi tre mesi di Zainab a New York, lanciandola nei locali notturni, nelle uscite tra amiche, ma soprattutto nella sua prima esperienza sessuale.
Ma non è tutto. Ciò che davvero colora e caratterizza l’esperienza di Zainab a New York sono le tre voci nella sua testa che ha iniziato a sentire proprio dal momento in cui ha messo piede nella metropoli statunitense. Inizialmente Zainab non riesce a spiegarsi cosa le stia succedendo, pensa di aver troppa fame o troppa sete, di essere stanca, di essere impazzita a causa del caldo, ma nessuna spiegazione è sufficiente a far smettere le voci di parlarle. C’è chi la guida con dolcezza, chi l’ammonisce con asprezza e chi cerca di mitigare. Con il passare dei giorni, finalmente Zainab capisce che ha portato con sé, nel suo personale viaggio a New York, un bagaglio molto speciale: quello delle sue antenate.
La trisnonna Jamila, la bisnonna Zeina, la nonna Mma Fati. Sono loro le tre donne che le parlano, la consigliano, l’ammoniscono, la guidano, ma soprattutto la ispirano.
Perché leggerlo
Zainab conquista New York è il racconto romanzato dell’esperienza americana dell’autrice. Come per il suo primo libro, I cento pozzi di Salaga, ispirato alle vicende di una trisavola venduta come schiava, anche in questo libro Ayesha Harruna Attah ci regala degli spaccati della propria vita, della propria storia personale, che si mescola alla storia della sua famiglia per fondersi, infine, nella Storia dell’Africa occidentale. Un dono prezioso che l’autrice ci concede senza riserve, intessendo trame ricche di sensazioni ancestrali, nostalgie generazionali, malinconie che vengono da lontano, cibi speziati che provocano un’immediata acquolina in bocca. Ayesha Harruna Attah, in tutti i suoi libri – e questo terzo ne è la conferma – traccia protagoniste forti, indipendenti, coraggiose, sospinte verso il nuovo e verso l’emancipazione, ma mai disconnesse dalle proprie radici.
Come la stessa autrice racconta, Zainab conquista New York è nato durante il 2020, un anno che ha reso tutti molto più fragili o, quanto meno, ci ha reso consci delle nostre fragilità. Il suo intento, con questo romanzo, era quello di scrivere una storia “feel good” e senza dubbio ci è riuscita.
Zainab conquista New York è un romanzo pieno di amore per la Grande Mela, pieno di amicizia, pieno di sogni che stanno per realizzarsi, pieno di pensieri luminosi che scacciano via quelli tristi. È un libro di cui io avevo immensamente bisogno.
March 19, 2022
I really wanted to enjoy this and it had so much potential but in all honesty I couldn't get over how irritating I found our narrator, Zainab. Zainab Takes New York is supposed to be a love letter to the city and I do think it fits that brief now that I have finished it. However the number of times I nearly gave up is the main reason I can't give it more than 2 stars.
I really liked all of our side chracters and how Zainab could have learnt so much from each of them. The setting was good as well., bt I felt like it lacked plot. I look back now and I am still not entirely sure what the overall story arc was. It felt more like a mish-mash of different things happening which could have been fleshed out a bit more to make more of a story. I really liked the concept of the Grannies in Zainab's head and I think that had so much potential to expand the story.
My main issue with this though was Zainab. As a 21 year old just about to finish university I was looking forward to hopefully reading about a character at the same stage in life as me, having similar experiences and feelings. Her desperation to have sex and lose her virginity felt like a teenager who thinks that all there is to life. I think it gave a diservice to young women of that age, because I know although it is a worry, I don't think anyone's entire life revolves around losing their virginity at 21. I found it uncomfortable to read and didn't appreciate that everyone else around her seemed to agree that it was embarrassing for her to not have done that yet. It would have been so nice to hear some words of affirmation from one of the side characters, telling Zainab that she is still valid as a woman despite that.
Overall I think there was so much potential in this idea but in the end I found it difficult to read so it wasn't enjoyable.
I really liked all of our side chracters and how Zainab could have learnt so much from each of them. The setting was good as well., bt I felt like it lacked plot. I look back now and I am still not entirely sure what the overall story arc was. It felt more like a mish-mash of different things happening which could have been fleshed out a bit more to make more of a story. I really liked the concept of the Grannies in Zainab's head and I think that had so much potential to expand the story.
My main issue with this though was Zainab. As a 21 year old just about to finish university I was looking forward to hopefully reading about a character at the same stage in life as me, having similar experiences and feelings. Her desperation to have sex and lose her virginity felt like a teenager who thinks that all there is to life. I think it gave a diservice to young women of that age, because I know although it is a worry, I don't think anyone's entire life revolves around losing their virginity at 21. I found it uncomfortable to read and didn't appreciate that everyone else around her seemed to agree that it was embarrassing for her to not have done that yet. It would have been so nice to hear some words of affirmation from one of the side characters, telling Zainab that she is still valid as a woman despite that.
Overall I think there was so much potential in this idea but in the end I found it difficult to read so it wasn't enjoyable.
July 10, 2023
This week on comic illustrations, finding oneself and nosy aunties.
We meet Zainab who’s moved to New York, not only for an internship and grad school, but explore her newfound freedom, dating and responsibility. But on her first day in New York as she finds a place to stay, the voices of three of her past grandmothers pop up in her subconscious mind. With the challenge of forming new friendships, holding onto old ones, pushing herself at work and dabbling in love, the three voices make Zainab’s New York experience an unforgettable one.
Let me just start by saying I’m not a violent person but I wanted to throw hands at Mary Grace, Seth, Alex and even Zainab. These characters almost to me out, because howww?
Zainab’s naivety shook me, but at the same time considering she was a twenty year old starting a new life in a new city, I would give her a bligh. We all have those moments of being young and making some questionable decisions. When I tell you Zainab made a lot of those, she did.
Her taste in friends and men, very questionable. I’m still giving Mary Grace the bombastic side eye even after the book ended because I still don’t trust her.
The grandmothers’ voices at first had me like what in the world of magical realism am I reading? But as the story progressed, I couldn’t wait to see the italics with the grandmothers’ voices because they added the right amount of flare that the story needed.
I appreciated the escapism I got while reading the novel especially with Zainab’s commute on the different trains. The descriptions were spot on.
If you’re looking for a short read about Ghanaian culture, navigating your 20s and New York City. This book is for you.
We meet Zainab who’s moved to New York, not only for an internship and grad school, but explore her newfound freedom, dating and responsibility. But on her first day in New York as she finds a place to stay, the voices of three of her past grandmothers pop up in her subconscious mind. With the challenge of forming new friendships, holding onto old ones, pushing herself at work and dabbling in love, the three voices make Zainab’s New York experience an unforgettable one.
Let me just start by saying I’m not a violent person but I wanted to throw hands at Mary Grace, Seth, Alex and even Zainab. These characters almost to me out, because howww?
Zainab’s naivety shook me, but at the same time considering she was a twenty year old starting a new life in a new city, I would give her a bligh. We all have those moments of being young and making some questionable decisions. When I tell you Zainab made a lot of those, she did.
Her taste in friends and men, very questionable. I’m still giving Mary Grace the bombastic side eye even after the book ended because I still don’t trust her.
The grandmothers’ voices at first had me like what in the world of magical realism am I reading? But as the story progressed, I couldn’t wait to see the italics with the grandmothers’ voices because they added the right amount of flare that the story needed.
I appreciated the escapism I got while reading the novel especially with Zainab’s commute on the different trains. The descriptions were spot on.
If you’re looking for a short read about Ghanaian culture, navigating your 20s and New York City. This book is for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews