"Nervous Conditions" is a novel by Tsitsi Dangarembga, first published in 1988. Set in colonial Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in the late 1960s, the story follows the life of a young girl named Tambudzai, or Tambu for short. Tambu is determined to get an education, even though her family struggles with poverty and her brother Nhamo is chosen to attend a mission school instead. However, when Nhamo dies suddenly, Tambu is given the opportunity to attend the mission school in his place. There, she encounters a vastly different world from the one she grew up in, including the affluent and westernized lifestyle of her aunt and uncle. As Tambu navigates the complexities of colonial society and her own family's expectations, she grapples with questions of identity, tradition, and the pursuit of a better life. "Nervous Conditions" is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of African life and culture, as well as its exploration of issues related to gender, race, and power. It is often cited as a seminal work in African literature.
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