A cherished and long relationship: Heinemann and Chinua Achebe from Things Fall Apart to Anthills of the Savannah

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe study of Chinua Achebe’s career and works remains incomplete without full attention being paid to the intricate publishing history of his works. This article addresses this conspicuous omission in the historiography of African literature. Using Achebe’s publishing records and correspondence, it examines the publishing process of Anthills of the Savannah (1987) in terms of relationships, negotiation, publicity and prizes. The shortlisting of the novel for the Booker Prize was a symbolic event, the full implications of which became clearer with time. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the publication of the novel, the article discusses the circumstances and conditions that led to its remarkable success. More specifically, it highlights the significant, though often overlooked, role of publishers in directing the literary experience of Achebe.