Publication Date: 2021 Available Formats: Buy Book HERE
Book Review
Introduction
Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad by Damilare Kuku – What a title! I was immediately drawn to this book just by its name—I was curious to find out why nearly all the men in Lagos were “mad”! I habitually never read blurbs before diving into a book, so titles play a significant role in my reading choices. This one intrigued me, and I suspected it would explore relationships and everything that comes with them and the realities of dating in Nigeria.
Summary
This collection of 12 short stories did not disappoint! Each one had me laughing out loud, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. The stories revolve around dating, romantic entanglements, and the many relationships we navigate in life. While humorously told, they are deeply rooted in the realities of everyday life—love, family, sex, friendship, betrayal, religion, wealth, and more. The stories capture the complexities of human connections, exposing secrets, lies, and the masks people wear in relationships.
As always, I opted for the Audible version, and the narrators, Anniwaa Buachie and Thabang Makhubela, delivered an outstanding performance. I loved the passion and humour with which they brought the stories to life. There’s something special about African books being narrated by Africans—it adds an authenticity that truly enhances the listening experience. Only an African can read those “ah ah!!” moments with the gusto and intention they require! Kudos to both narrators, especially Anniwaa Buachie, who truly elevated the storytelling.
Reflection and Recommendation
I loved this book so much that I listened to it twice.
I genuinely enjoyed every single story, but if I had to pick favourites, they would be (in no particular order):
Chuck-Up
The Anointed Wife
Lover’s Vendetta
Catfish
Beard Gang
I wholeheartedly recommend this book—whether you read or listen to it, you’re in for a treat!
About the Author
Damilare Kuku is a Nigerian writer, actress, and filmmaker. Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad is her best-selling book. I hope to read and review her 2024 novel Only Big Bumbum Matters Tomorrow. Damilare has also worked as a radio presenter, scriptwriter, and director.
Reading Time: 2minutesCover of The Visit, a 2021 short story by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie that flips the script on gender and power.
Book Details
Year Published: 2021 Available Formats: Kindle (£0.00), Audible (£1.74) Buy Book HERE
Book Review
When I first started reading The Visit, I was a little confused. Like most books I read, I went in blind—no previews, no reviews—just an open mind. But within a few pages, I realized what was happening, and I absolutely loved it!
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie flips the script in this thought-provoking short story. The Visit follows Obina, a house husband with a successful wife, as he receives a visit from an old friend who now lives in America. Obina is unemployed, staying at home to care for their children while his wife works long hours, often away with vague work-related excuses.
But here’s the twist—women rule the world. They hold positions of power, dictate societal norms, and push forward agendas that concern them. Adichie masterfully inverts gender roles, highlighting the everyday realities of patriarchy by making men experience what women often go through. One of my favourite details? The award women receive for “contributing to the human race” when they give birth—pure gold!
This short story is sharp, insightful, and delightfully subversive. It challenges conventional gender dynamics in an entertaining and profoundly reflective way. Another brilliant piece from Chimamanda that left me thinking long after I finished it!
About the Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a renowned Nigerian writer and feminist known for her powerful storytelling on themes of identity, gender, race, and migration. Her notable works include Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and We Should All Be Feminists, based on her widely influential TED Talk.
I have loved reading all these books, and I have equally loved: The Thing Around Your Neck, Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions, and Notes on Grief. I am looking forward to reading her new offering, due to be released in March 2025: Dream Count. Most of Chimamanda’s books are accessible and affordable, especially on Kindle and Kindle Unlimited.
She strongly advocates for African narratives, rejecting the “single story” of the continent, and has received numerous accolades, including the MacArthur “Genius” Grant and honorary degrees from top universities. Her work has shaped contemporary discussions on feminism, race, and postcolonialism, making her one of our time’s most influential literary voices. Chimamanda is one of my favourite authors; I have read all her works. She was instrumental in my feminist journey.
Reading Time: 3minutesCover of Purple Hibiscus, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s award-winning debut novel exploring family, faith, silence, and resistance in postcolonial Nigeria.
First Published in 2003 Available formats: Audible (included in membership), paperback, hardback, Kindle Unlimited Buy book HERE
Book Review and Reflection
Purple Hibiscus is not based on actual events, but reading it gives the impression that it could be. In this debut novel, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie delivers a profoundly intersectional and complex story of family life, domestic abuse, religion, self-discovery, and the consequences of political unrest and failing governments.
Spanning 17 chapters, the story follows Kambili, a 15-year-old girl raised by a wealthy, abusive, religious fundamentalist father. Kambili lives with her older brother, Jaja, her resigned mother, and her domineering father, whom she calls Papa. Kambili struggles to find her voice and sense of self in the shadow of Papa, who rules their home with an iron fist. He sets rigid schedules for the family, demanding academic excellence and strict adherence to Christianity. Even minor deviations are punished with violence.
Throughout the book, Kambili’s internal conflict revolves around self-discovery and asserting her voice. She is caught in a cycle of pleasing her father, constantly second-guessing herself, and yearning for approval. Her home is devoid of happiness; laughter is a foreign concept, and fear looms continuously.
Papa, educated by missionaries, has abandoned his Igbo heritage. He estranges himself from his father, Papa-Nnukwu, for refusing to convert to Catholicism, condemning him as a pagan. This estrangement prevents Kambili and Jaja from forming a meaningful relationship with their grandfather. Despite his oppressive behaviour, Papa is highly respected in his community and revered for his business successes and philanthropic contributions.
In contrast, Papa’s sister, Aunty Ifeoma, is vibrant, strong, intelligent, and kind. Although she shares a similar educational background, she embraces her roots and provides a stark contrast to her brother. Living in Nsukka, where she works as a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Aunty Ifeoma invites Kambili and Jaja into her home. Despite financial struggles, a delayed salary, and scarcity of essentials like fuel and food, her home exudes warmth and resilience.
Aunty Ifeoma introduces laughter, freedom, and a new perspective to Kambili and Jaja’s lives. Her influence inspires a spirit of resistance in them and exposes them to the possibility of a life beyond Papa’s control. She saves them in many ways, giving them the strength to envision a different future.
Kambili’s world changes dramatically when an unexpected event shatters her nuclear family, bringing immense sacrifice and a newfound sense of freedom. The transformation of her mother, initially passive, into an unexpected heroine or villain, depending on how one looks at it, reflects themes of battered woman syndrome and personal liberation.
While Purple Hibiscus is a compelling read, as is characteristic of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s works, the ending felt rushed. Chapters 16 and 17 bring the narrative to an abrupt halt, leaving many questions unanswered. A book of this depth could have benefited from a more thorough conclusion. Additionally, Papa’s character would have been richer, with more background details about his time with the missionaries and the experiences that shaped him.
Unfortunately, the Audible narration also let the audiobook down. The narrator struggled with pronunciation, and her accent lacked the authenticity needed to bring the story to life, detracting from the overall experience. Due to this, I struggled to get into the book right away, and thus, it took me longer to finish it.
That said, I would still wholeheartedly recommend this incredible book, but I suggest opting for the physical copy rather than the audiobook to appreciate the depth and beauty of the story fully.
She strongly advocates for African narratives, rejecting the “single story” of the continent, and has received numerous accolades, including the MacArthur “Genius” Grant and honorary degrees from top universities. Her work has shaped contemporary discussions on feminism, race, and postcolonialism, making her one of our time’s most influential literary voices. Chimamanda is one of my favourite authors; I have read all her works. She was instrumental in my feminist journey.
Reading Time: 3minutesCover of Tomorrow I Become a Woman, Aiwanose Odafen’s moving debut novel about love, loss, and resistance in the face of oppressive gender roles.
Book Details
Author: Aiwanose Odafen, a Nigerian writer Published: 2022 Format Read: Audible Other Available Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback
Book Review
Tomorrow I Become a Woman, Aiwanose Odafen’s debut novel, tells the compelling yet all-too-familiar story of Obianuju, a young woman growing up in 1970s Nigeria who endures the harsh realities of patriarchy. Obianuju begins her journey as a promising university student with dreams of pursuing a master’s degree after graduation. However, these ambitions are abruptly cut short when she succumbs to societal pressures and marries Gozie, a handsome and charismatic bachelor highly regarded within their church.
At just 21 years old, Obianuju’s initial hesitations about marrying Gozie are overshadowed by her mother’s relentless pleas for her to settle down. What follows is a tumultuous marriage, with Gozie’s authoritarian nature stripping Obianuju of her agency and autonomy. While her brothers do their best to protect her, her mother plays a central role in sustaining the patriarchy that binds Obianuju. Viewing Gozie as a reflection of her long-lost late brother, Ikenna, Obianuju’s mother becomes his staunch supporter, scolding her daughter whenever she speaks out and siding with Gozie no matter the circumstances.
This novel serves as a stark reminder of how women can perpetuate patriarchal structures, sometimes becoming active participants in the cycle of abuse. Obianuju’s mother and the women from her church epitomize this troubling reality. Yet, the book also offers nuance, reminding us that Obianuju’s mother belonged to a different era, one in which her understanding of gender roles and societal expectations was deeply entrenched. Despite this context, the lack of love and support Obianuju receives from her mother throughout the story is heartbreaking.
Obianuju, however, symbolizes hope and resistance. She raises her children differently, determined to break the generational cycle of oppression. Amid mounting pressure from her family and church, she finds the strength to take extraordinary action to reclaim her freedom. Her story is a testament to the complexity, resilience, and courage of women who fight for their autonomy even in the bleakest circumstances.
Throughout the novel, I found myself deeply moved, particularly by the dynamics between Obianuju and her mother. At times, I felt distraught over her mother’s unwavering complicity in Obianuju’s suffering. While the book begins at a slower pace, it eventually gains momentum, becoming nearly impossible to put down. Readers will need patience, but the payoff is well worth it.
Overall, this novel is brilliantly written. Though fictional, it resonates deeply with the lived experiences of many women. It serves as both a tragic reminder of the fragility of women under patriarchy and a powerful narrative of hope and resistance. Aiwanose Odafen has crafted a story that not only highlights the challenges faced by women but also celebrates their strength and determination to rise above them.
About the Author Aiwanose Odafen is a Nigerian feminist writer and storyteller. Born in Lagos, she holds a first-class degree in accounting from Covenant University and an MBA from the University of Oxford. Her debut novel, Tomorrow I Become a Woman (2022), was featured in Brittle Paper’s “100 Notable African Books of 2022.” She is also the author of We Were Girls Once (2024). A graduate of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus Writing Workshop and a current MFA candidate at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, Odafen is dedicated to writing honest, powerful stories about women’s lives. Learn more at aiwanose.com.
Published: 1988 Formats Available: Audible, Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover Buy Book HERE
Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga – A must-read African classic on identity and education
Book Review
Introduction
Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga is the first book in Tsitsi Dangarembga’s acclaimed trilogy, followed by The Book of Not (2006) and This Mournable Body (2020). It was the first novel published in English by a Black woman from Zimbabwe and was named one of the BBC’s Top 100 Books That Have Shaped the World in 2018. It is an African literary classic.
This brilliantly crafted and thought-provoking novel follows the life of Tambudzai, a young Shona girl growing up in colonial Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Through Tambudzai’s lived experiences, the story confronts intricate themes of patriarchy, colonialism, Western education, identity, and resistance, weaving them into an engaging and often humorous narrative.
A Story of Struggle and Resistance
Tambudzai’s journey begins with tragedy, as her opportunity to attend school arises only after the death of her brother. Western education, seen as a privilege and a tool for advancement, is simultaneously portrayed as a mechanism that sometimes undermines cultural values.
Her uncle, Baba Mukuru, is the epitome of this tension. An educated man with a master’s degree from Britain, he embodies the contradictions of patriarchy and Western education. Despite his academic achievements, he wields his authority in a profoundly oppressive manner, reinforcing the subjugation of women in his family. His constant clashes with his defiant daughter, Nyasha, highlight these complexities.
Nyasha, educated and vocal, challenges her father’s patriarchal views while resisting colonial ideals, serving as a source of inspiration for Tambudzai. Nyasha’s struggles, including her battle with bulimia, reflect the psychological toll of navigating conflicting cultural expectations and the pressures of being both Shona and educated in a colonial system.
Identity, Language, and Resistance
The interplay of language—English versus Shona—becomes a metaphor for the broader struggles of cultural belonging and self-definition. Tambudzai’s journey is not only about personal growth but also about grappling with the enduring legacies of colonialism and patriarchy.
One of the most significant moments in the novel is her parents’ white wedding, a ceremony enforced by Baba Mukuru. Tambudzai perceives this as a betrayal of their cultural values, and her silent protest during the event marks a pivotal moment of resistance.
Personal Reflection
On a personal level, I found this book profoundly moving. Tambudzai’s story, though set in a specific cultural and historical context, echoes universal themes of struggle, resilience, and the pursuit of agency. Her silent protests, the tension between cultural heritage and modern aspirations, and the courage to question authority deeply resonated with me. As someone who has navigated similar cultural complexities, I felt an emotional connection to Tambudzai’s journey.
The audiobook narration added an extra layer of depth and authenticity. The narrator brought the characters to life, making their emotions, conflicts, and triumphs all the more vivid and relatable. The humour and nuanced exploration of complex issues all came together seamlessly, making Nervous Conditions a standout read.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Read This Book
Nervous Conditions is a masterpiece—a deeply layered, richly told story that invites reflection and conversation about the roles of Western education, culture, and resistance in shaping identity. It is an African literary classic, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking read.
Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga – a groundbreaking novel exploring gender, colonialism, and identity in Zimbabwe and is our March 2025 book of the Month.
About the Author: Tsitsi Dangarembga
Tsitsi Dangarembga is a Zimbabwean author, filmmaker, and activist. Born in 1959 in Mutoko, Zimbabwe, she studied medicine at the University of Cambridge before switching to psychology at the University of Zimbabwe. She later pursued film studies in Germany, leading to a successful career in storytelling across multiple mediums.
Dangarembga’s debut novel, Nervous Conditions (1988), was the first book published in English by a Black Zimbabwean woman and is widely regarded as a landmark work in African literature. It was followed by The Book of Not (2006) and This Mournable Body (2020), completing her critically acclaimed trilogy.
In addition to her literary contributions, Dangarembga is an award-winning filmmaker and a fierce advocate for social justice, particularly in Zimbabwe. She has been an outspoken voice against political repression and gender inequality. Her work continues to inspire discussions on colonialism, identity, and resistance.
Reading Time: 3minutesCover of Rootless, the 2023 debut novel by British-Ghanaian author Krystle Zara Appiah. A moving story of migration, motherhood, and mental health.
The debut novel of Krystle Zara Appiah, a British-Ghanaian author Buy Book HERE Narrated by: Diana Yekinni and Clifford Samuel Other formats available: Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback Book published: 2023
The book begins with a Ghanaian proverb: “Marriage is like a groundnut. You have to crack it to see what’s inside.” This proverb sets the tone for a story as intricate and layered as Efe’s life, weaving together themes of migration, young love, parental expectations, mental health, marriage, loss, abandonment, the complexities of motherhood, and the importance of support systems.
The narrative follows Efe’s journey chronologically, spanning 19 years before a pivotal event in her life. A young Ghanaian girl, Efe, moves to London with her sister to live with their aunt. The book delves into her experiences at a London high school, her university years, and beyond. Through Efe’s eyes, we witness the challenges of migrating to England at a young age and her quest to find belonging. Efe faces significant challenges at university but eventually finds stability in her career. She reconnects with her childhood love and navigates the unexpected challenges of motherhood, which she had never anticipated nor desired.
The author skillfully balances the complexities of Efe’s mental health struggles with the strength of her family support system. The writing is nuanced and deeply empathetic, portraying the multifaceted realities of motherhood. It highlights that motherhood is not every woman’s desire and explores how it can profoundly transform a woman’s life. Despite cultural and religious pressures, Efe exercises her agency, making tough decisions to safeguard her mental health and preserve her identity.
As a mother, I deeply resonated with Efe’s struggles with the idea and experience of motherhood. The book’s exploration of choice—whether regarding physical and mental health or financial and community resources—is profoundly significant. The narrative emphasises the importance of having options, including the ability to return to one’s country of origin when needed. This theme is integral to the broader experience of life in the diaspora.
Efe’s husband, Sam, is another compelling character. His pure heart and gentle soul shine through the story, making the tragic twist of fate that impacts him and his daughter all the more heart-wrenching.
The book employs a unique narrative structure, counting down to a significant event—17 years before, two months before, and so on. The reveal of this event is both shocking and heartbreaking. The final chapters left me in tears, utterly unprepared for the emotional weight of the ending. This is a testament to the author’s incredible storytelling, filled with moments of surprise that keep readers engaged and deeply moved.
I highly recommend this book to anyone. It provides a profound exploration of life’s challenges and the agency women can exercise, particularly in the context of motherhood. It touches on essential themes of identity, migration, family, and resilience.
Finally, the narrators did an exceptional job. Their voices brought the story to life, adding depth and emotion to a powerful tale.
Krystle Zara Appiah is a British-Ghanaian writer, editor, and screenwriter, born and raised in London. She holds a degree in literature and creative writing from the University of Kent. In 2020, she was selected for the London Library’s Emerging Writers Programme. Appiah’s debut novel, Rootless, has received critical acclaim for its exploration of complex themes such as migration, motherhood, and identity. In addition to her writing, she works as a children’s books editor and serves as the Head of Children’s and YA at The Novelry.
