Homegoing
'Homegoing' by Yaa Gyasi is a sweeping historical novel that traces the fate of two half-sisters, Effia and Esi, and their descendants across three hundred years. Set against the backdrop of Ghana's tumultuous history and the brutal reality of American slavery, their lives diverge in starkly different paths. As the narrative shifts through generations, we witness the profound impacts of racism, colonialism, and identity. Gyasi's lyrical prose beautifully interweaves personal and collective histories, inviting readers to confront the legacies of the past. This poignant exploration leaves an indelible mark, urging us to question our own connections to history and each other.
By Yaa Gyasi
Published: 2017
"We are not just a collection of stories, but stories that intertwine; each life a thread in the tapestry of our shared history."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK • Ghana, eighteenth century: two half sisters are born into different villages, each unaware of the other. One will marry an Englishman and lead a life of comfort in the palatial rooms of the Cape Coast Castle. The other will be captured in a raid on her village, imprisoned in the very same castle, and sold into slavery. One of Oprah’s Best Books of the Year and a PEN/Hemingway award winner, Homegoing follows the parallel paths of these sisters and their descendants through eight generations: from the Gold Coast to the plantations of Mississippi, from the American Civil War to Jazz Age Harlem. Yaa Gyasi’s extraordinary novel illuminates slavery’s troubled legacy both for those who were taken and those who stayed—and shows how the memory of captivity has been inscribed on the soul of our nation.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Homegoing
About the Author
Yaa Gyasi
Yaa Gyasi is an award-winning Ghanaian-American author best known for her debut novel "Homegoing," published in 2016, which explores the legacy of slavery through the lives of two half-sisters and their descendants in Ghana and the United States. Gyasi's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, intricate storytelling, and deep historical insight, often addressing themes of identity, belonging, and the impact of history on personal lives. Her second novel, "Transcendent Kingdom," published in 2020, delves into the complexities of immigrant life, family, and addiction, further showcasing her talent for weaving profound narratives that resonate with readers.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Yaa Gyasi
- Published
- May 2017
- Publisher
- National Geographic Books
- ISBN
- 1101971061
- Language
- English
- Pages
- N/A
- Genres
- LiteratureCultural History
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Maya Angelou
The Halo Effect
Phil Rosenzweig
Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World
Haruki Murakami
A Moveable Feast
Ernest Hemingway
Gamification by Design
The Body Reset Diet
Harley Pasternak, M.Sc.
Goodnight Moon Board Book 60th Anniversary Edition
Margaret Wise Brown
Bury the Chains
Adam Hochschild
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Ed Cooke's Book Recommendations
Ed Cooke is a renowned British author and memory expert, best known for his book "Remember, Remember: Learn the Stuff You Thought You Never Could." A Grand Master of Memory, Cooke co-founded Memrise, a popular language learning app that utilizes mnemonic techniques to enhance memory retention. He has contributed significantly to the literature on memory improvement, blending scientific insights with practical advice. Cooke's work has been influential in both educational and cognitive science communities, helping countless individuals improve their learning capabilities. His engaging writing style and innovative methods have made complex memory concepts accessible to a broad audience.
View Collection
Aaron Rodgers's Book Recommendations
Aaron Rodgers is a renowned American football quarterback, widely recognized for his exceptional career with the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Although his primary acclaim comes from sports, Rodgers has contributed to literature through insightful writings and interviews that offer a deep dive into the mindset of a professional athlete. His thoughtful perspectives on leadership, teamwork, and personal growth have resonated with readers beyond the sports community. Rodgers’ contributions have been featured in various sports and lifestyle publications, adding a unique voice to the literary world. His ability to articulate the nuances of his experiences has made him a respected figure in both athletic and literary circles.
View Collection
Anthony Bourdain's Book Recommendations
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View Collection
Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations
Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.
View Collection
Amelia Boone's Book Recommendations
Amelia Boone is a renowned American obstacle racer and ultrarunner, celebrated for her remarkable achievements in the sport. She has won multiple world championships, including the Spartan Race World Championship and the World's Toughest Mudder. Boone's compelling personal journey and resilience have inspired countless athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Though primarily known for her athletic prowess, Boone has also contributed to literature through insightful articles and motivational writings on endurance, mental toughness, and overcoming adversity. Her story continues to influence and empower individuals striving for excellence in both sports and life.
View CollectionShowing 8 of 9 related collections
“We are not just a collection of stories, but stories that intertwine; each life a thread in the tapestry of our shared history.”
Homegoing
By Yaa Gyasi
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.