Publication of "The Joys of Motherhood"

January 1979 saw the publication of The Joys of Motherhood, a novel that critically examined the idyllic conceptions of motherhood against the harsh realities faced by Nigerian women. Through the narrative of Nnu Ego, Emecheta portrayed the societal pressures and expectations of women, providing insightful commentary on the intersection of colonial impact and traditional gender roles. This book became one of Emecheta’s most widely read works and is frequently included in academic discourse on African and gender studies worldwide.