Things Fall Apart - Chinua Achebe

Having read this book, it's easy to see why it's held in high regard and is considered a classic - it's a very specific story and yet the story of the main character is also a highly universal one in some ways. The writing is clear and elegant and it allows the reader to experience the events in the book emotionally while reading. The author does a wonderful job of helping the reader understand the motivations that drive the main character's actions, so that we can understand even if we don't necessarily sympathize with some of them. This was a deceptively fast and easy read that will stay in my mind. Evidently there is a sequel; I will have to read that, as I would love to hear more. Highly Recommended.