Americanah Lesson Plan

Discuss the incident with the tennis coach. How does Ifemelu feel? Why do you think she feels that way?

Be aware, of course, that this conversation could be upsetting to many students; tread carefully and be ready to end the conversation if any students are struggling or being disrespectful.

Ifemelu feels like she has betrayed herself and that she is completely alone in America. She feels that she has been hurt and violated, but also that she has betrayed Obinze deeply. She doesn't know who to call or what to say about what's happened. Her feelings involve shame about her financial desperation, shame about what she did for money, shame about her body's natural response, and...