Harare North by Brian Chikwava

Harare North

Brian Chikwava

A funny but ultimately sad novel of how illegal and legal immigrants can struggle to adapt and survive in London. Our unnamed hero is infinitely resourceful. A lot of the humour hinges on his Zimbabwean take on English vocabulary and grammar with the result that the language is always entertaining. Big on atmosphere especially London and its passing flotsam and jetsam of down-and-outs and social misfits. I loved this book.

Extract
Immigrant people's contribution to this country is equal to one Mars bar in every citizen's pocket every year. That's the first story I read when I start interneting. Sekai is busy putting Mars bars in other people's pockets but can jump on she relative if he touch she bread. That's Harare North for you.
Parallels
  • Children of the Revolution by Dinaw Mengestu
  • The Other Hand by Chris Cleave