Things Fall Apart
By Chinua Achebe
"First published in 1958, this novel tells the story of Okonkwo, the leader of an Igbo (Ibo) community who is banished for accidentally killing a clansman. The novel covers the seven years of his exile to his return, providing an inside view of the intrusion of white missionaries and colonial government into tribal Igbo society in the 1890s." - HELM
Why was this book challenged?
Banned book element tile
Reasons: Racial Content
According to the National Coalition Against Censorship, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe has been challenged for its portrayal of European colonialism."
The story “reveals the negative effects of white-rule on Okonkwo’s small village" which may be why it ended up on a list of challenged books in Texas in 2012 along with other books that allegedly contain content which teaches “Critical Race Theory."
See our Frequently Asked Questions webpage for more information about Critical Race Theory and how attacks on Critical Race Theory are attacks on Intellectual Freedom.
Ways to read this book at STCC!
Members of the STCC community have full borrowing privileges at the STCC Library, located in Building 19, 2nd Floor, provided they are actively registered in the college system and their records are in good standing.
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Username: STCC ID number
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Additional Resources and Accessibility
If you prefer to listen to your books, or if the print or eBook versions of this book are checked out at STCC, you have additional checkout options through Massachusetts public libraries. CW/MARS and Boston Public Library eCards will give you access to eBook and Audiobook versions of this book. You can also download the Libby app to listen to audiobooks on your smartphone. These resources are outside of STCC Library, please consult your local public library for any questions regarding these outside resources.
Check public libraries in Western Massachusetts via CW/MARS:
Residents of Massachusetts can sign up for a Boston Public Library eCard, to access their digital materials such as eBooks and downloadable audiobooks. Follow the instructions on the BPL's website: