Americana (novel)

Americana is a 2013 novel by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. It tells the story of Ifemelu and Obinze, two young Nigerians deeply in love, who are separated when Ifemelu immigrates to the United States to attend university and Obinze is prevented from joining her, eventually living undocumented in London.

The novel explores themes of race, identity, displacement, and belonging through Ifemelu's experiences as a Black woman in America, particularly in relation to her hair, accent, and perceptions of her race. It also contrasts her experience with that of Obinze in London, examining the different ways in which immigrants navigate their identities in different Western countries. Ifemelu starts a popular blog, "Raceteenth or Various Observations About American Blacks (Those Formerly Known as Negroes) by a Non-American Black," where she dissects American culture and race relations with sharp wit and insightful commentary.

The narrative shifts between Ifemelu's and Obinze's perspectives, charting their individual journeys and the lingering connection between them. The novel examines the complexities of long-distance relationships, the challenges of adapting to new cultures, and the search for personal and professional fulfillment in a globalized world. Upon returning to Nigeria, Ifemelu grapples with feeling both connected to and estranged from her homeland, ultimately questioning her place in the world.