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Literary Fiction· Somalia

From a Crooked Rib

by Nuruddin Farah
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1970English
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About This Book

From a Crooked Rib by Nuruddin Farah is a landmark work of literary fiction, first published in 1970. From a Crooked Rib is a seminal work by Nuruddin Farah that explores the struggles of a young Somali woman against the oppressive traditions of her society. The novel is significant for its pioneering feminist themes and its portrayal of the complexities of identity and autonomy in a patriarchal culture. Farah's narrative is both a personal and political exploration, making it a cornerstone of Somali literature. Themes of feminism, identity, tradition vs. modernity run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorNuruddin Farah
Published1970
Country of Origin🇸🇴 Somalia
LanguageEnglish
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780862321109
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇸🇴 Somalia

This book is part of Somalia's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Somalia →

Editorial Assessment

First published in 1970, Nuruddin Farah's From a Crooked Rib is a work of literary fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with feminism, identity, tradition vs. modernity, autonomy gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to From a Crooked Rib for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of feminism, identity, tradition vs. modernity, autonomy is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Somalia's literary landscape, Nuruddin Farah occupies a significant position. From a Crooked Rib is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20020
✍️
About the Author
Nuruddin Farah
Somalia
View Author →

Nuruddin Farah is a Somalia author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is From a Crooked Rib about?

From a Crooked Rib is a seminal work by Nuruddin Farah that explores the struggles of a young Somali woman against the oppressive traditions of her society. The novel is significant for its pioneering feminist themes and its portrayal of the complexities of identity and autonomy in a patriarchal culture. Farah's narrative is both a personal and political exploration, making it a cornerstone of Somali literature.

Who wrote From a Crooked Rib?

From a Crooked Rib was written by Nuruddin Farah, from Somalia. First published in 1970.

What awards has From a Crooked Rib won?

From a Crooked Rib has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is From a Crooked Rib worth reading?

From a Crooked Rib is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in feminism, identity, tradition vs. modernity.

Where can I buy From a Crooked Rib?

You can buy From a Crooked Rib on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is From a Crooked Rib?

From a Crooked Rib is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is From a Crooked Rib from?

From a Crooked Rib originates from Somalia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Somalia on our country page.

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