Afterlives book by Abdulrazak Gurnah

Afterlives book by Abdulrazak Gurnah

Afterlives is a historical novel set in East Africa during the German colonial period and the years that followed. The story follows several interconnected characters—Hamza, Ilyas, and Afiya—whose lives are shaped by war, colonial rule, displacement, and personal loss.

At the center of the novel is the impact of the German colonial army and the First World War in East Africa, a part of history often overlooked in global narratives. Hamza, after serving in the colonial forces, returns carrying physical and emotional wounds, while the others struggle to rebuild their lives in a world transformed by violence and political change.

Abdulrazak Gurnah blends personal stories with historical events to explore memory, survival, love, and the lingering effects of empire. The title Afterlives reflects how people continue living in the shadow of history and trauma long after events have ended. Buy in Kenya with fast delivery.

What you’ll learn

• German colonial rule in East Africa
• World War I in the African context
• Themes of memory, trauma, and survival
• Love and rebuilding after conflict
• Colonial legacy and historical silence

Who should read it

• Readers who enjoy historical literary fiction
• Fans of Abdulrazak Gurnah’s novels
• Anyone interested in East African history
• Readers who like emotionally rich, character-driven stories

Why buy Afterlives from Readers’ Republik

• Buy in Kenya with fast delivery straight to your doorstep
• Curated collection of African historical fiction
• Simple and reliable online book shopping experience
• Books chosen for meaningful and historically rich reading

Related books:

• Paradise – Abdulrazak Gurnah
• The Shadow King – Maaza Mengiste