Content Warning: The source text and this guide depict racism, sexism, enslavement, murder, child loss, domestic violence, and death by suicide.

The Joys of Motherhood offers an examination of the nature of motherhood. The novel’s title is ironic because the novel focuses on the challenges of motherhood rather than its joys.

The challenges and sacrifices associated with motherhood are evident in Nnu Ego’s trying experience raising multiple children. These include the physical pains and discomfort associated with pregnancy and birth, the time-consuming daily tasks of caring for children (including feeding, clothing, cleaning, and teaching them), the struggle to acquire money for food and shelter, and the emotional investment that comes with attachment to one’s children. Throughout the majority of the narrative, Nnu Ego fulfills each of these responsibilities to the best of her ability with minimal complaints, though she does sometimes appeal to Nnaife to better assist her in raising their children. Only after the birth of her second set of twin girls does Nnu Ego begin to think critically about her experience as a mother, as is evident in this passage:

Yes, I have many children, but what do I have to feed them on? On my life.