The Poisonwood Bible

by Barbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 4018
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9780061804816
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 2009-10-13
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Poisonwood Bible is a compelling narrative told through the eyes of the wife and four daughters of Nathan Price, a fervent evangelical Baptist who relocates his family to the Belgian Congo in 1959. Their journey is fraught with challenges as they discover that their American beliefs and possessions are drastically transformed by the African environment. This story spans three decades and is set against the backdrop of post-colonial Africa's dramatic political landscape. The novel explores themes of religion, conscience, imperialist arrogance, and the paths to redemption, offering a darkly comic yet poetic justice to human failings. Barbra Kingsolver's most ambitious work to date, it delves into the complexities of cultural collision and personal transformation. /n/nThe Poisonwood Bible is not just a tale of one family's struggle but a broader exploration of the consequences of colonialism and the search for meaning in a changing world. Through the voices of the Price women, the novel provides a rich tapestry of perspectives on faith, family, and the human condition. The story's setting in the Congo adds a layer of historical significance, making it a powerful commentary on the era's political and social upheavals. Kingsolver's vivid storytelling and deep character development make this a must-read for those interested in literary fiction with a strong historical and cultural context.

Reviews
Yvette Carol's Blog · Yvette Carol · 2021-01-16
thought-provoking 4.50

The novel is a meaty behemoth that requires time and attention, but it is a rewarding read. The characters are complex and the story is powerful.

Yvette Carol describes The Poisonwood Bible as a substantial and meaty novel that demands the reader's full attention. She appreciates the complexity of the characters and the powerful storytelling that Kingsolver employs. The novel is seen as a rewarding read, despite its length and the time it requires. Carol highlights the way the story explores themes of family, faith, and the consequences of colonialism, making it a thought-provoking and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    This is the perfect sort of novel to tackle when you have time at your disposal, because it's a meaty behemoth that takes more than a bit of effort.

    The characters are complex and well-developed, each bringing their own unique perspective to the story.

    The novel is a powerful exploration of the human condition, filled with rich and evocative prose.

The Book Habit · 2014-05-06
remarkable 4.50

The Poisonwood Bible is a truly remarkable piece of fiction with a compelling narrative. The style and ease of the narrative ensure it can be read purely for enjoyment.

The Book Habit's review describes The Poisonwood Bible as a truly remarkable piece of fiction. The reviewer praises the style and ease of the narrative, which makes the novel enjoyable to read. The characters are compelling and the story is engaging, making it a standout novel. The reviewer also appreciates the way Kingsolver explores complex themes such as colonialism, family dynamics, and personal growth, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read. The novel's exploration of the African landscape and culture is also praised, adding depth and richness to the story.

Quick quotes

    The Poisonwood Bible is a truly remarkable piece of fiction.

    The style and ease of the narrative ensure that it can be read purely for enjoyment of the author's skill.

    The characters are compelling and the story is engaging.

The Guardian · 2013-05-03
insightful 4.50

The novel's narrative form with five narrators is remarkable, offering a unique and powerful storytelling experience. The themes of colonialism and family dynamics are explored deeply.

The Guardian highlights the unique narrative structure of The Poisonwood Bible, which uses five different narrators to weave a compelling story. This approach allows for a rich exploration of themes such as colonialism, family dynamics, and the impact of cultural clashes. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the characters, noting that each narrator brings a distinct perspective that enhances the overall reading experience. The novel is praised for its ambitious scope and the way it challenges the reader to consider multiple viewpoints.

Quick quotes

    Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible is remarkable not just for its story but also for its narrative form.

    Orleanna's voice is particularly poignant, offering a mother's perspective on the unraveling of her family.

    The novel is a powerful exploration of the consequences of colonialism and the resilience of the human spirit.

Stuck in a Book · 2012-01-11
engaging 4.00

The novel is confusing at times but also phenomenally good, with a rich and engaging narrative. The characters are well-developed and the story is compelling.

The reviewer from Stuck in a Book acknowledges that The Poisonwood Bible can be a confusing read at times, but they also highlight its phenomenal qualities. The novel's rich narrative and well-developed characters are praised for their depth and complexity. The reviewer appreciates the way Kingsolver weaves together the stories of the Price family, creating a compelling and thought-provoking reading experience. Despite the occasional confusion, the novel is seen as a powerful exploration of family, faith, and the impact of colonialism.

Quick quotes

    So, there you are. A confusing review, I daresay, but also a confusing read.

    At its best, The Poisonwood Bible is phenomenally good.

    Barbara Kingsolver's writing is both searingly perceptive and beautifully crafted.

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