From the Bookshelf of Around the World in 80 Books…

So Long a Letter

Mariama Bâ,

Modupé Bodé-Thomas (Translator)

Start date: August 15, 2018

Finish date: September 15, 2018

Discussion: Group Reads Discussions

Why we're reading this: August BOTM - Translated Fiction by a Female Author
[close] August BOTM - Translated Fiction by a Female Author

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Group Reads Discussions

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By Diane , Armchair Tour Guide · 3 posts · 1372 views

last updated Jan 18, 2013 07:12PM

Thank you for the Amazing Reviews!
By Bruce · 1 post · 13 views

last updated May 14, 2025 08:13AM

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What Members Thought

Oct 06, 2008 Jennifer rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: francophone-literature, books-set-in-africa

This book helps you experience life as a Senegalese woman.

1 like · Like · see review

Mar 11, 2013 Lindsey Z rated it really liked it

I think if we read Ba's fictional letter as more of an essay about socialism, religion, family, marriage, and women, then we will be much more satisfied as readers. As a "novel," it just doesn't have enough going on- and that's not because of the length (though partially so, of course), but because characters quickly come and go and we never get any true character development outside of Ramatoulaye's own grappling with the death of her polygamous husband. I absolutely love Ba's consideration of ...more

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Nov 20, 2012 Annie rated it really liked it

Shelves: 1001-read, world-in-80-books-2013

An interesting little novella from Senegal portraying a middle-aged woman's life and family. A unique voice and fascinating story - I only wish it had been longer and more developed. Makes me want to read more literature fron West Africa.

Read for my Around the World challenge. ...more

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