Over the past few months i've really gotten into the habit of picking up various books to read. My friend got me hooked on Cassava republic books, basically this is an African printing press that publishes different authors from Africa,mostly of Nigerian descent. Their cover illustrations are really really good, you almost would'nt believe its an African book when you look at the cover, kudos to Cassava republic.
So i've read a few of their books, such as: I Do Not Come to You by Chance- Adaobi Nwaubani, Waiting for an Angel- Helon Habila, Tropical Fish 'Tales from Entebbe'- Doreen Baingana, Measuring Time- Helon Habila, Nights of the Creaking Bed- Toni Kan.
'I Do Not Come to You by Chance' was probably the funniest out of these few i've read, it hilariously highlights the issue of internet fraud and other 419 scams that go on in Nigeria. It tells the story of a young man who has to come to terms with his father's death and also has to find a way to provide for his younger siblings and generally take care of his family who are financially unstabble. The way the author tells the story is so captivating i had to finish this book the day i started reading, i was literally up till 4am even though i had to get up a bit early to get some work done later that morning. This book is a must read for young Nigerians, it graphically sheds light on most of the problems many Nigerian youths face today.
Another book which I really like is 'Measuring Time' this book is set in rural Jos, Helon Habila takes us through different era's and tells us stories within stories,i really felt like i could relate to this book for some reason. My friend did'nt like it as much and said the book "dragged on a bit" i totally loved it, this might be because i'm a Historian and the book does have a lot of historical references, infact a character in the book is recruited by the traditional ruler to write the history of the people in that village. I also found it hard to put this book down.
I just thought to share some lovely literature, i'm also so proud of these Nigerian authors who are getting recognised internationaly, and telling stories of situations that really do exist. I'm definately going to get more books from Cassava Republic, they are conveniently sold in most supermarkets and bookshops around Lagos, this makes it easier for me *yayyy* if you dont exactly know where you can get your hands on them i suggest you visit their website http://www.cassavarepublic.biz/ you can also read about upcoming books, e.t.c
