Join author Jessica George in conversation with Paula Akpan to celebrate the publication of her debut novel, Maame.

Maame is an assured debut that shines in its iridescence and range of emotion; it is a blisteringly funny and deeply heart-breaking novel for fans of Chewing Gum, Such a Fun Age and Queenie. It has been listed as one to watch by The Sunday Times, Stylist, Harpers Bazaar and The Times to name just a few! Maddie's story stays with the reader long after turning the final page. In conversation with paula for this special virtual event, Jessica will discuss filling this novel with tenderness, hilarity and raw emotion and the inspirations behind this debut. Maame has everything from navigating flat shares, dating apps, microaggressions at work and the shock of grief. This is an event you do not want to miss.

Maame has many meanings in Twi, but in my case, it means woman.

Meet Maddie. To her mostly-absent mum, she's Maame, the woman of the family. To her dad, she's his carer - even if he hardly recognises her. To her friends, she's the one who still lives at home, who never puts herself first.

It’s time to become the woman she wants to be. The kind who wears a bright yellow suit, says yes to after-work drinks and flirts with a thirty-something banker.

Who doesn't have to google all her life choices. Who demands a seat at the table.

But to put ourselves together, sometimes we have to fall apart…

"Utterly charming and deeply moving . . . Maddie's journey will resonate with anyone who's had to grow up - or who's still trying to."  Celeste Ng

"Lively, Funny, Poignant...Prepare to fall in love with Maddie. I did!"  Bonnie Garmus

"A poignant coming-of-age tale about finding strength, hope and courage . . . Maame's quiet confidence is true to life and liberating."  Lizzie Damilola Blackburn