2020*1st* This Mournable Body - Tsitsi Dangarembga (Faber)

"This Mournable Body" is a novel written by Tsitsi Dangarembga. It was published in 2018 as a hardback and is the third book in the series that started with "Nervous Conditions" in 1988.

The story follows the life of Tambudzai Sigauke, a woman in her late thirties living in post-colonial Zimbabwe. Tambudzai struggles with personal and professional setbacks as she navigates through unemployment, poverty, and increasing disillusionment with her life.

Throughout the novel, Tambudzai reflects on her past and the choices she made in her youth. She often compares her current situation to the dreams and aspirations she had as a young woman, highlighting the dissonance between her expectations and the reality she faces.

Tambudzai's narrative also touches on broader themes such as gender inequality, political corruption, and the lasting effects of colonialism on Zimbabwean society. As she grapples with her own identity and place in the world, Tambudzai becomes a symbol for the challenges faced by many Africans in the post-colonial era.

"This Mournable Body" is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of personal and national identity, as well as a commentary on the social and political issues prevalent in Zimbabwe. Dangarembga's writing style is introspective and poetic, using rich descriptions to bring the setting and characters to life.

The novel was shortlisted for the 2020 Booker Prize, gaining international recognition for its powerful and poignant storytelling. It is often praised for its incisive social commentary and its portrayal of a resilient and multi-dimensional female protagonist.

Overall, "This Mournable Body" is a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that delves deep into the complexities of post-colonial Zimbabwean society and the human experience.