28 pages • 56 minutes read
Ferdinand OyonoHouseboy
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1956A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Houseboy by Ferdinand Oyono tells the story of Toundi Ondoua, a young man from rural Cameroon who becomes a houseboy for colonial masters in the city of Dangan. His journey exposes him to the stark contrasts between African and European cultures, ultimately leading to his involvement in affairs that highlight themes of trust, power, and identity, culminating in tragedy. The narrative addresses colonial oppression, racism, and violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Ferdinand Oyono's Houseboy provides a poignant critique of colonialism through the diary of Toundi, a young Cameroonian. Praised for its vivid imagery and emotional depth, the novel highlights the dehumanizing effects of colonial rule. Some readers find its structure disjointed, but its powerful message and cultural insight resonate deeply.
Who Should Read Houseboy?
A reader who would enjoy Houseboy by Ferdinand Oyono is likely interested in postcolonial literature and African history. Comparable to Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's The River Between, they appreciate complex narratives about colonialism, identity, and cultural conflict. Enthusiasts of poignant, reflective storytelling will find it compelling.