Purple Hibiscus is the story of Kambili Achike, a fifteen-year-old Nigerian girl living in Nigeria the wake of European colonization and withdrawal. Kambili's father, Eugene, is a fanatical Catholic and an abusive alcoholic. His family crumbles under his physically and psychologically abusive rule. A respite with liberal Catholic relatives enables the family to take ownership of their lives and escape Eugene's tyranny. Kambili comes of age and discovers her sexuality and identity. Her mother poisons Eugene, ending his hold on her.
Post Colonial Africa: Set in a turbulent time in Nigeria's political history, the idea that there is a vacuum in power and a dictator rises to power is present in the references to oil shortages.
Religion: Again a call back to colonial times, the theme of religion is present in the interactions between characters. Kambili's father rejects her Grandfather because of his animist beliefs. This is also present in Kambili's thoughts as she is always worried not to commit a sin and scared to anger her father.
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