How Beautiful We Were

Why people recommend it

How Beautiful We Were by Imbolo Mbue is a contemporary novel that explores themes of environmental degradation, corporate exploitation, and community resistance in an African village. Pamela Paul discussed the book on The Book Review during a regular reading segment, later revisiting the novel when it was selected as a prominent work of fiction for the publication's year-end best books list. Gilbert Cruz also welcomed the author to the podcast to discuss the creation of her second novel. Throughout these discussions, the book is highlighted for its powerful narrative dealing with the heavy human and ecological costs imposed by a powerful multinational oil company operating within a vulnerable community. The hosts emphasize the emotional resonance of the story and the importance of the author's voice in contemporary fiction. By focusing on the collective struggle of the villagers rather than a single protagonist, the novel offers a sweeping look at justice, corporate greed, and the resilience of people fighting to protect their homeland from irreversible destruction.