The History of a Difficult Child by Maaza Mengiste is an exceptional novel that explores the adventures of Selam, the youngest daughter of a large and tumultuous family, in South Africa during the 1980s. Selam is born into a time when her family, the Asmelash, are the victims of a military regime that has overthrown the government and introduced a civil war.

The narrative follows Selam's experience as she combines the innocence of a child with the wisdom she gains from the events around her. Through her life, readers experience the social pressure and challenges brought about by political turmoil, highlighting the conflict between family, God, and country.

A work that touches on themes of revenge, education, and freedom, as well as the quest for the voice of a difficult child in a world full of contradictions.

Pages: 400, Dimensions: 15.4x15.4cm