Overview: Over the summer, you will read two books:

Question

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
An Edible History of Humanity by Tom Standage

Instructions: For each book, you will write a response that satisfies the writing prompt below in the spaces provided. Your responses must:
Clearly state a specific central idea or argument
Clearly state how the author develops that idea or advances that argument
Select and use evidence to support your line of reasoning
Explain how the evidence supports your line of reasoning
Use appropriate grammar and punctuation
Be approximately 300-500 words in length

Remember, all of your responses must be your own work. Do not copy information directly from the book, from the Internet, or from anyone else.

Book 1
Title: Purple Hibiscus

Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Write your response to the Writing Prompt in the space provided below:
written like a 8th grader

Answer 1

Response to Writing Prompt for Purple Hibiscus

In "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, one central idea is the struggle for freedom and personal identity in the face of oppression. The protagonist, Kambili, lives under the strict and abusive rule of her father, Eugene. Throughout the novel, Adichie develops this idea by showcasing Kambili's journey towards finding her own voice and breaking free from her father's control.

Adichie illustrates Kambili’s oppressive environment through her vivid descriptions of her father's strict rules and religious fanaticism. For example, Eugene imposes a rigid schedule on his family, dictating everything they do, from their meals to their religious practices. He even punishes Kambili and her brother Jaja for minor infractions, which creates an atmosphere of fear in their household. This environment initially stifles Kambili's ability to express herself. However, when Kambili spends time with her Aunty Ifeka and her cousins, she begins to experience a different kind of love and freedom. She discovers the beauty of laughter, joy, and open communication, which contrasts sharply with her life at home.

A crucial scene that highlights Kambili's transformation occurs when she serves her Aunty Ifeka and her cousins a meal. Unlike in her father's house, where meals are silent and tense, Kambili finds joy in the laughter and conversation that surrounds her cousin’s table. This moment is significant because it marks the beginning of Kambili’s realization that life can be more joyful and free than she ever imagined. Adichie supports this transformation by using Kambili’s internal monologue, which shows her grappling with fears and desires as she begins to understand that she can make choices for herself.

The contrast between Kambili's experiences at her aunt's home versus her father's house underscores the central idea of freedom versus oppression. As Kambili embraces her identity and becomes more assertive, she learns that her voice matters. By the end of the novel, Kambili’s journey reflects a powerful message about the importance of finding one’s own path and the strength that comes from reclaiming personal agency, even when faced with immense challenges.

In conclusion, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie effectively develops the central idea of freedom and personal identity in "Purple Hibiscus" through Kambili's experiences and growth. By presenting the harsh realities of Kambili’s life under her father's tyranny alongside her experiences with her aunt, Adichie illustrates the transformative power of love and freedom, ultimately emphasizing that individuals can break free from oppressive circumstances to discover who they truly are.