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Actually 'power' is a very interesting word in the context of this novel. When translated from the original French, the title could also mean 'Three ''Powerful'' Women' and, to me, this would have been a better title, adding a sense of irony. Indeed all three are strong in their own way and in their own individual circumstances, but power is a recurring theme. All three have their power taken away from them via the actions or choices of others (of both genders, though men don't come out of this book particularly well). Also their migration from Africa to France or vice versa comes from the coercion/duress/choice of third parties. In Norah and Fanta's cases they're bright, successful, career women but in the end others have the tools (be it love of siblings, children or money) to manipulate their futures. This may not be an optimistic tale, but, unfortunately, very realistic and, miraculously, absorbing in such a way that you feel privileged to have spent time in these three women's company.

If you'd like to read more about the life and trials of an immigrant, then we recommend [[Hand Me Down World by Lloyd Jones]], [[The Road Home by Rose Tremain]] and [[Hinterland by Caroline Brothers]], each treating the subject from a different angle.

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