Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Breaks 12-Year Novel Hiatus with 'L’Inventaire des rêves'

March 28, 2025
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Breaks 12-Year Novel Hiatus with 'L’Inventaire des rêves'
  • This new work marks Adichie's return to fiction after twelve years, following her critically acclaimed novel 'Americanah,' which focused on themes of exile and the experiences of racially marginalized women.

  • Set during the spring of 2020 as lockdowns begin, 'L’Inventaire des rêves' revolves around four Nigerian-born women navigating life in America.

  • The characters include Chiamaka, a wealthy woman struggling to find her ideal partner; Zikora, who faces personal challenges despite her professional success; Kadiatou, Chiamaka's housekeeper inspired by Nafissatou Diallo; and Omelogor, Chiamaka's exuberant cousin who remains in Nigeria.

  • Each character reflects on their romantic relationships, exploring themes of betrayal and the search for connection.

  • The novel also addresses the high-profile case involving Dominique Strauss-Kahn and Nafissatou Diallo, linking it to broader themes of feminism and identity.

  • Adichie's prose includes sharp satire and powerful commentary on feminism, offering a rich narrative filled with dialogue as the characters navigate their desires and traumas amidst cultural contrasts between Nigeria and America.

  • Adichie, who resides in Maryland, was celebrated in Paris before returning to the U.S. to spend time with her children and travel to Nigeria for Easter.

  • Her return to novel writing is a significant moment for her fans across the 55 countries where her works are translated.

  • Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a prominent Nigerian-American feminist writer, has released her highly anticipated fifth novel, 'L’Inventaire des rêves,' which explores the American dream through the experiences of four African women.

  • In addition to Adichie's novel, the article recommends three other books featuring nuanced portrayals of women, reflecting on themes of connection, identity, and resilience.

  • Since the publication of 'Americanah' in 2013, Adichie has focused on essays and nonfiction, including 'Nous sommes tous des féministes' and 'Notes sur le Chagrin,' solidifying her status as an iconic figure for a generation.

  • Despite some imperfections in the narrative, 'Dream Count' showcases the complexity of female friendship and the intricate lives of its characters.

Summary based on 4 sources


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