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Classic Literature· Cameroon

Houseboy

by Ferdinand Oyono
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1956French
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About This Book

Few works of classic literature have earned the sustained critical attention that Houseboy (1956) by Ferdinand Oyono continues to receive. Houseboy is a poignant novel that explores the complexities of colonialism in Cameroon through the eyes of a young African boy working as a houseboy for a French colonial administrator. The book is a powerful critique of the colonial system, highlighting the exploitation and dehumanization faced by the colonized. Oyono's narrative style and use of irony make it a significant work in postcolonial literature. Themes of colonialism, identity, exploitation run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorFerdinand Oyono
Published1956
Country of Origin🇨🇲 Cameroon
LanguageFrench
Category🏛️ Classic Literature
ISBN9780435905320
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🏛️ Classic Literature

Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

Explore all Classic Literature books →
Country of Origin

🇨🇲 Cameroon

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

Explore books from Cameroon →

Editorial Assessment

Houseboy by Ferdinand Oyono sits within the tradition of classic literature that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1956 in Cameroon, it engages with colonialism, identity, exploitation, power dynamics in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. 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 Houseboy for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of colonialism, identity, exploitation, power dynamics is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Ferdinand Oyono's role in the literature of Cameroon is well established. Houseboy can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
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
20030
✍️
About the Author
Ferdinand Oyono
Cameroon
View Author →

Ferdinand Oyono is a Cameroon author whose work in classic literature has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Houseboy about?

Houseboy is a poignant novel that explores the complexities of colonialism in Cameroon through the eyes of a young African boy working as a houseboy for a French colonial administrator. The book is a powerful critique of the colonial system, highlighting the exploitation and dehumanization faced by the colonized. Oyono's narrative style and use of irony make it a significant work in postcolonial literature.

Who wrote Houseboy?

Houseboy was written by Ferdinand Oyono, from Cameroon. First published in 1956.

What awards has Houseboy won?

Houseboy has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Houseboy worth reading?

Houseboy 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 colonialism, identity, exploitation.

Where can I buy Houseboy?

You can buy Houseboy on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Houseboy?

Houseboy is classified as Classic Literature. Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

What country is Houseboy from?

Houseboy originates from Cameroon's literary tradition. Explore more books from Cameroon on our country page.

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