“Houseboy is a brilliant, short, accessible novel. I learned much about colonial structures in mid-20th century Africa, about African lives and attitudes, and about European insight and ignorance, sensitivity and cruelty. An essential consideration though is that this little book is not only an invaluable document about colonialism in Africa but also a beautiful and tragic story—that is, a good read irrespective of theoretical and geographical boundaries.” — Thomas Lynn, Penn State Berks
“The darkly satirical work skewers French colonial Cameroonian society. It is an essential, accessible text for African literature and postcolonial literature courses.” — Felicity Palmer, Clarkson University
“I’m pleased to see that Waveland is keeping this title in print. Houseboy provides students with a vivid portrayal of the underside of colonialism, tragic to be sure, but also sparkling with moments of wit.” — Robert Daniels, University of North Carolina
“. . . Both very funny and inexpressibly sad . . . Mr. Oyono’s sophisticated wit stings like a mosquito and he underwrites his story with real craftsmanship.” — Eve Burgess, Punch
“. . . a book of moving and confident mastery.” — Sunday Telegraph