The Thing Around Your Neck Site

Akunna feels "invisible" and struggles with the "mix of ignorance and arrogance" from Americans who assume all Africans are from the same place or share the same background.

Her uncle, who initially seems supportive, sexually assaults her, telling her that "America was give-and-take". Traumatized and unwilling to stay, she flees to Connecticut without telling anyone where she is going. The Thing Around Your Neck

Akunna wins the "American visa lottery" and moves from Nigeria to Maine to live with her uncle. She quickly realizes that the America she expected—one of abundance and ease—does not match the reality of her struggle. Akunna feels "invisible" and struggles with the "mix