In "Stay with Me," Ayobami Adebayo weaves a haunting tale of love and loss in Nigeria, where societal pressures collide with personal desires. Yejide and Akin, a young couple yearning for a family, find their dreams shattered by the weight of tradition and betrayal. As secrets unravel, their hearts face a relentless test, leading them down a path of desperation and heartbreak. The story unflinchingly explores the complexities of marriage, fidelity, and the human spirit's resilience. Will Yejide and Akin's love endure the storm, or will the forces of fate tear them apart forever?
By Ayobami Adebayo
Published: 2017
"I thought I had time."
“Powerfully magnetic. . . . In the lineage of great works by Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. . . . A thoroughly contemporary—and deeply moving—portrait of a marriage.” —The New York Times Book Review Ilesa, Nigeria. Ever since they first met and fell in love at university, Yejide and Akin have agreed: polygamy is not for them. But four years into their marriage—after consulting fertility doctors and healers, and trying strange teas and unlikely cures—Yejide is still not pregnant. She assumes she still has time—until her in-laws arrive on her doorstep with a young woman they introduce as Akin’s second wife. Furious, shocked, and livid with jealousy, Yejide knows the only way to save her marriage is to get pregnant. Which, finally, she does—but at a cost far greater than she could have dared to imagine. The unforgettable story of a marriage as seen through the eyes of both husband and wife, Stay With Me asks how much we can sacrifice for the sake of family. A New York Times Notable Book One of the Best Books of the Year: NPR, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Chicago Tribune, BuzzFeed, Entertainment Weekly, The New York Post, Southern Living, The Skimm A 2017 BEA Buzz Panel Selection A Belletrist Book-of-the-Month A Sarah Jessica Parker Book Club Selection Shortlisted for the 2017 Baileys Women’s Prize for Fiction Shortlisted for the Wellcome Book Prize and the 9mobile Prize for Literature Longlisted for the International Dylan Thomas Prize
Ayobami Adebayo is a talented Nigerian author known for her compelling storytelling and rich character development. Her debut novel, "Stay With Me," was widely acclaimed, winning several awards and being shortlisted for notable prizes, such as the 2017 Bailey's Women's Prize for Fiction. Adebayo’s work often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of family dynamics, set against the backdrop of contemporary Nigerian society. She holds a degree in English literature from Obafemi Awolowo University and has received an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Maryland. Adebayo continues to be a significant voice in modern literature, captivating readers with her poignant narratives and insightful perspectives.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Time Traveler's Wife," romance and time intertwine as Henry, a man cursed with involuntary time travel, navigates the complexities of his extraordinary condition. His unpredictable journeys often separate him from his beloved wife, Clare, whose unwavering devotion to him spans time and space. As their love story unfolds, readers are drawn into a heartfelt exploration of fate, loss, and the fragility of life’s moments. Each reunion brings both joy and heartache, culminating in a poignant reflection on the enduring nature of love. Will they find a way to bridge the gaps of time, or will their love be forever altered by the ticking clock?
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.
In 'Madame Bovary,' Gustave Flaubert tells the poignant story of Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in the mundane reality of provincial life. Yearning for romance and excitement, she becomes embroiled in a series of ill-fated affairs that lead to tragedy. With each fleeting passion, Emma's disillusionment deepens, revealing the stark contrast between her dreams and reality. Flaubert's masterful prose captures the essence of desire, desperation, and the pursuit of happiness. Will Emma ever find the fulfillment she seeks, or is she destined for despair?
In 'Can Love Last?', Stephen A. Mitchell explores the evolving nature of romantic love through the lens of both psychology and personal narratives. He delves into the factors that challenge lasting relationships, unraveling the mysteries of passion, intimacy, and attachment. With poignant insights and compelling stories, Mitchell examines whether love can truly endure the test of time. The book invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with love and commitment, making it a thought-provoking journey into the heart of relationships. Will you find the answers to keeping love alive, or is it destined to fade?
In 'Jane Eyre', a young orphaned girl rises from a tumultuous childhood marked by abuse and neglect to become a strong-willed governess. Her journey leads her to Thornfield Hall, where she encounters the enigmatic Mr. Rochester, igniting a passionate yet tumultuous romance. As secrets unfold and societal expectations clash, Jane must navigate her own sense of identity and morality. This gothic tale weaves themes of love, liberty, and resilience, challenging the norms of its time. Will Jane find her rightful place in a world rife with obstacles, or will her search for independence lead to unforeseen sacrifices?
In 'Overstated,' comedian Colin Quinn embarks on a hilarious yet poignant exploration of America's cultural obsessions and the exaggerated narratives that shape our identity. With his unique blend of humor and keen observations, Quinn takes readers on a journey through the complexities of contemporary life, touching on everything from politics to pop culture. Each chapter reveals a new layer of absurdity, encouraging us to embrace our quirks while questioning the extremes we often celebrate. As he delivers his sharp wit and wisdom, Quinn challenges us to reconcile our personal truths with the overstated stories we tell ourselves. Can laughter ultimately help us navigate the chaos of modern existence?
In 'A Wrinkle in Time', a young girl named Meg Murry embarks on an extraordinary interstellar journey to rescue her father, who is trapped by a dark force. Joined by her brother Charles and a mysterious guide named Mrs. Whatsit, they traverse the cosmos using the concept of tesseracts—also known as wrinkles in time. Along the way, they confront the embodiment of evil and discover the power of love and individuality. L'Engle masterfully weaves science fiction with themes of family, bravery, and the struggle against conformity. This imaginative tale challenges readers to ponder the nature of good and evil, making it an unforgettable adventure.
In 'Doodle Revolution', Sunni Brown reveals the transformative power of doodling in enhancing creativity and communication. She argues that doodling is not just a distraction but a valuable tool for problem-solving and idea generation. The book combines fascinating insights with practical applications, showing how anyone can integrate doodling into their daily routines. Through engaging illustrations and real-life examples, Brown inspires readers to tap into their innate ability to think visually. Discover how a simple doodle can unlock new dimensions of your mind and revolutionize the way you approach challenges!
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Emily Oster is an economist and professor at Brown University, known for her data-driven approach to parenting. She is the author of popular books like Expecting Better and Cribsheet, where she uses economics to debunk common parenting myths and offer evidence-based advice. Emily’s research empowers parents to make informed decisions based on data rather than societal pressure. Her approachable style has made her a favorite among modern parents seeking clarity in an overwhelming information landscape. She continues to challenge conventional wisdom with a focus on making parenting less stressful.
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
Harry Styles is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction before launching a successful solo career. Styles’ solo work has earned critical acclaim for its blend of rock, pop, and indie influences, with hits like Sign of the Times and Watermelon Sugar. In addition to music, Styles has also made a mark in fashion, known for his gender-fluid style and collaborations with brands like Gucci. He is also an actor, starring in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. Styles is recognized for his artistic versatility and cultural impact.
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
Jacinda Ardern is a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. Known for her empathetic leadership, she garnered international acclaim for her handling of the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, promoting unity and compassion. Ardern also led New Zealand through the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong public health response. In addition to her political career, she has contributed to literature by authoring several speeches and articles that reflect her progressive values and leadership philosophy. Her legacy includes significant strides in social welfare, climate change policy, and child poverty reduction.
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Haley Pham is an American YouTuber, entrepreneur, and content creator who rose to prominence through her lifestyle, beauty, and personal growth videos. With a loyal fanbase of millions, Pham has built a career as a social media influencer, sharing her journey through life, including topics like marriage, home renovation, and self-care. Known for her authenticity and relatability, she has expanded her brand to include a podcast and a lifestyle brand called Retro Reprise. Pham is also an advocate for mental health and often speaks openly about her personal struggles, inspiring her young audience to embrace self-acceptance. As a digital entrepreneur, she has leveraged her platform to collaborate with major brands and create products that reflect her personal style and values. Pham continues to evolve as a creator, focusing on building her business while maintaining a strong connection with her community. Her journey from vlogger to entrepreneur showcases her versatility and ambition in the digital space.
Showing 8 of 21 related collections
“I thought I had time.”
Stay with Me
By Ayobami Adebayo
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.