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Cover of Leaves of the Banyan Tree
Literary Fiction· Samoa

Leaves of the Banyan Tree

by Albert Wendt
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
new-zealand-book-awards
Published 1979English
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About This Book

When Albert Wendt published Leaves of the Banyan Tree in 1979, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of literary fiction. This epic novel by Albert Wendt spans three generations of a Samoan family, offering a sweeping narrative that examines the impact of colonialism and modernization on traditional Samoan society. The book is celebrated for its rich character development and its exploration of themes such as power, land, and identity. 'Leaves of the Banyan Tree' is a cornerstone of Pacific literature, highlighting Wendt's role as a leading voice in the region. Themes of colonialism, modernization, family run through the work. The book has received recognition from New Zealand Book Awards 1980.

Book Details

AuthorAlbert Wendt
Published1979
Country of Origin🇼🇸 Samoa
LanguageEnglish
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780824815841
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

🇼🇸 Samoa

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

Explore books from Samoa →

Editorial Assessment

Leaves of the Banyan Tree by Albert Wendt sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1979 in Samoa, it engages with colonialism, modernization, family, power in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Among its recognitions: New Zealand Book Awards 1980. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. The appeal of Leaves of the Banyan Tree lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of colonialism, modernization, family, power is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Albert Wendt's role in the literature of Samoa is well established. Leaves of the Banyan Tree 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

new-zealand-book-awards
winner · national
19800
✍️
About the Author
Albert Wendt
Samoa
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Albert Wendt is a Samoa author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Leaves of the Banyan Tree about?

This epic novel by Albert Wendt spans three generations of a Samoan family, offering a sweeping narrative that examines the impact of colonialism and modernization on traditional Samoan society. The book is celebrated for its rich character development and its exploration of themes such as power, land, and identity. 'Leaves of the Banyan Tree' is a cornerstone of Pacific literature, highlighting Wendt's role as a leading voice in the region.

Who wrote Leaves of the Banyan Tree?

Leaves of the Banyan Tree was written by Albert Wendt, from Samoa. First published in 1979.

What awards has Leaves of the Banyan Tree won?

Leaves of the Banyan Tree has received the following recognition: New Zealand Book Awards 1980.

Is Leaves of the Banyan Tree worth reading?

Leaves of the Banyan Tree 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, modernization, family.

Where can I buy Leaves of the Banyan Tree?

You can buy Leaves of the Banyan Tree on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Leaves of the Banyan Tree?

Leaves of the Banyan Tree is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Leaves of the Banyan Tree from?

Leaves of the Banyan Tree originates from Samoa's literary tradition. Explore more books from Samoa on our country page.

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