Tab Article

Genre: Literary Fiction, Cultural Fiction, Postcolonial Literature, Drama
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Book Review:
Darl: The Third Wife by Sita Kulatunga is a compelling and empathetic cross-cultural novel that delves into the complex world of a polygamous marriage in Nigeria, seen through the eyes of an outsider—a young Sri Lankan woman. The story follows Darl, who becomes the third wife of a Nigerian man, navigating the intricate and often tense dynamics of a shared household, cultural dislocation, and personal identity.

Kulatunga’s achievement lies in her remarkable ability to authentically portray characters and a setting far from her own native milieu. As noted by reviewers, she “probes the mind of a young girl trapped between two cultures” with great sensitivity and insight. The novel offers an intimate look into the domestic and emotional landscape of a polygamous family, exploring themes of jealousy, tradition, adaptation, and resilience.

The writing is praised for its finesse and authenticity, drawing readers directly into the bedrooms and shared spaces of the household. While the perspective is that of an Asian author writing about Africa—placing it within the tradition of postcolonial literature—the characters feel genuine and their struggles relatable.

This book is a thoughtful and engaging read for anyone interested in stories of cultural intersection, women’s lives, and the personal negotiations within traditional family structures. It’s a bold narrative that bridges continents and offers a poignant, humanizing glimpse into a way of life often misunderstood from the outside.