The African Child by Camara Laye

The Autobiography of an African Boy

"The African Child" is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the journey of a young boy from his childhood in Guinea to his adolescence. The narrative captures the boy's experiences growing up in a traditional African society, his rites of passage, his relationship with his family, particularly his blacksmith father, and his eventual departure for studies in France. The book provides a vivid portrayal of the rich cultural traditions, beliefs, and values of the Malinke people, while also exploring themes of identity, change, and the tension between tradition and modernity.

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Published
1953
Nationality
Guinean
Length
Short
Pages
120-200
Original Language
French
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Alternate Titles
- The Dark Child

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