There is a quote that says, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you’ll go.” This quote is not quite accurate because reading doesn’t only add to your knowledge, it actually does take you to many places (whether real or fictional places!). Do you know all the many worlds you could visit just by burying your head in the pages of a book? A book is one of the best things to happen to this world. Just in case you do not like reading or you do not read books by Nigerian authors or you absolutely love reading and need recommendations, here are three must read books by Nigerian authors, in my opinion!
The First of 3 Books is THE SECRET LIVES OF BABA SEGI’S WIVES BY LOLA SHONEYIN
Published in 2010, “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives” offers a compelling portrayal of polygamous life in contemporary Nigeria, delving into the intricate dynamics, rivalries, and familial politics within such unions.
The novel explores themes of polygamy, rivalry, sexuality, mental health, and the struggles faced by African women. Centred around Baba Segi, a wealthy but uneducated patriarch, and his four wives, the story unfolds as secrets gradually come to light, particularly with the arrival of Bolanle, a young university graduate. Bolanle’s presence unwittingly disrupts the balance of Baba Segi’s household, revealing hidden truths.
The book won the PEN Oakland Josephine Miles Literary Award and the ANA Ken Saro-Wiwa Prose Prize in 2011, and that same year, it also earned a longlisting for the Women’s Prize for Fiction. In 2012, it reached the shortlist for the NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature, and by 2014, The Observer newspaper named it one of the top ten novels about Nigeria.
Adaptations for stage and screen have also been undertaken, including a play directed by Femi Elufowoju Jr at the Arcola Theatre in London, based on Lola Shoneyin’s novel.
2: PURPLE HIBISCUS BY CHIMAMANDA N. ADICHIE
“Purple Hibiscus” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a poignant narrative set in postcolonial Nigeria, revolving around Kambili Achike, a young girl from a wealthy yet oppressive family. Dominated by her devout Catholic father, Eugene, the Achike household is plagued by violence and psychological abuse. However, Kambili’s perspective shifts when she spends time with her aunt Ifeoma, whose liberal household encourages free thinking and expression.
Amidst this nurturing environment, Kambili and her brother Jaja find their voices and identities. As the family’s dynamics unravel, culminating in Eugene’s demise and Jaja’s imprisonment, Kambili emerges as a resilient young woman.
The novel, acclaimed for its portrayal of familial turmoil and resilience, has garnered numerous awards, including the Hurston-Wright Legacy Award and the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize. It has also received nominations for prestigious literary accolades such as the Orange Prize for Fiction and the Booker Prize, solidifying its place as a seminal work in contemporary literature.
BOOK 3: CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE BY TOMI ADEYEMI
“Children of Blood and Bone” is a 2018 young adult fantasy novel by Tomi Adeyemi, marking her debut and the beginning of a planned trilogy.
The story follows Zélie Adebola as she endeavours to bring magic back to the kingdom of Orïsha, oppressed by the ruling class kosidáns who have mercilessly suppressed the maji, practitioners of magic like Zélie. Adeyemi spent 18 months crafting the novel, drawing inspiration from works like Harry Potter and An Ember in the Ashes, as well as West African mythology and Yoruba culture.
The narrative also reflects Adeyemi’s response to the despair caused by police shootings of black Americans. The book’s success was unprecedented, securing a significant publishing deal with film rights sold to Fox 2000 Pictures.
Debuted as a #1 New York Times bestseller for young adult books, it garnered positive reviews for its exploration of oppression, racism, and the journey of self-discovery among its characters. The novel received the William C. Morris Debut YA Award, and its sequel, “Children of Virtue and Vengeance,” also achieved #1 status on the New York Times bestseller list. With a film adaptation in progress, excitement for the continuation of the series remains high.If you have read any of these books, leave a comment and tell us what you think. Do you think it is a must read?
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