Chinelo Okparanta’s debut novel Under the Udala Trees is inspired by traditional Nigerian folklore and set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s civil war. An 11-year-old girl is sent away for her safety as war and violence begin to tear the country apart, but falls in love with someone taboo — a girl from a different community — and is forced to hide what she feels. Powerful and heartbreaking, Under the Udala Trees is a deeply moving commentary on identity, prejudice, and forbidden love.Publication date: Sept. 22, 2015
