5 Nigerian books to read this November

There’s nothing like a good book for proper relaxation.  Nigerian writers are writing and publishing now more than ever, in this technology age. Some of these books are physical copies while some are electronic copies. All the same, there’s variety here that shouldn’t be missed.  When Vultures Die This novel, book one of ‘The Songhai […]

There’s nothing like a good book for proper relaxation.  Nigerian writers are writing and publishing now more than ever, in this technology age. Some of these books are physical copies while some are electronic copies. All the same, there’s variety here that shouldn’t be missed. 

When Vultures Die

This novel, book one of ‘The Songhai Chronicle’ by Chidi Martin Obi is a political thriller that quickly brings to mind the state of the Nigerian political landscape. When a philanthropist dies, his daughter, Jidenma Charlene Munonyedi is soon encouraged to run for mayor by people she loves. Of course, she encounters stiff rivalry, and a cabal (a common term in Nigerian politics) ready to hold onto power by all means possible. If you like politics and its intrigues, and also enjoy fiction, now and then, this may just be your go-to book. 

My Mind is No Longer Here

Titles, most times, like book covers, grip readers’ attention and ‘My Mind is No Longer Here’ by Sylva Nze Ifedigbo may just be one of such. But don’t be mistaken, this is a short story collection. It tells the story of four men from different corners of Nigerian society whose fate is tied to one man as they struggle to leave Nigeria, they are drawn to Yinka. Why do they want to leave and how and why is this Yinka their go-to man? This is what stories do; they make you want to know. Do you want to find answers?

Poems of Redemption

If you enjoy poetry, perhaps you shouldn’t hesitate to read Olawale Famodun’s ‘Poems of Redemption’, after all, to be saved (however you view it) is always a good thing. Described as “a very deep collection” and “philosophical”, it explores the subject of love and more, in a very engaging manner. When you see a title like ‘Yours Unconditionally’, you probably think you already know what to expect, or the titular poem, don’t be so sure. Poetry is slippery ground (in a good way) and what you see may not always be what you get. This is no exception.  

Mountain of Yesterday

In Tony Nwaka’s ‘Mountain of Yesterday’, two people, Amina and Udoka, find themselves amid religious crises in Maiduguri. Of course, there’s wanton destruction of properties and a battle for survival. Soon, one of them, Udoka, is able to relocate to his home in Eastern Nigeria where another kind of crises awaits him. He finds himself at a crossroad when he’s expected to adhere to the traditions of his people. Will he succumb to pressure or not? If he doesn’t, there will be consequences.  

Love Must Be Deaf Too

This work of fiction comes with an intriguing title. Ugochukwu Chinye-Ikejiunor’s ‘Love Must Be Deaf Too’ is a romance story with all the right ingredients; loving, losing and regret. Although the title at the same time is a bit of a cliché, there’s more to this book for those interested in romance stories. After all, what’s life without love?