Francesca Ekwuyasi

I read a glowing review of Butter Honey Pig Bread that quickly pushed this wonderful book to the top of my reading list! It tells the intertwining stories of three Nigerian women: (Kambirinachi and her twin daughters, Kehinde and Taiye), who become estranged from one another after Kehinde is sexually abused. After more than a decade apart, Taiye and Kehinde return home to Lagos, where the three women struggle to reconcile and address past wounds.

There are so many layers to this beautiful book, and it touches on many issues, including mental illness, child abuse, inter-generational trauma, self-destructive behavior, and more. I found myself drawn to each woman's story, and although there were many sad moments, it also felt uplifting. I have to mention ... this book will also make you super hungry! Taiye is an amazing cook, and I found myself googling different recipes to try as I read.… (mer)

A wonderful, warm book that touches on so many difficult subjects. Three Nigerian women - a mother and her twin daughters - live through many difficult events and even violence, but retain a beautiful ability to love and forgive.

The book describes an unbridgeable rift between the sisters, and as adults they pursue their lives on two continents - one in Canada and the other in England. The book travels back and forth between the present and the past and we learn of the events that have torn this family apart.

The book is filled with lush descriptions of food and art and love, and you'll find yourself yearning for all three!

… (mer)