AVID BOOK READERS’ STARTER PACK

Precious Igwe

There are no laid down rules, but there are things you just should have done if you are part of a certain demographic. There are books you should read if you count yourself a book lover, depending on your taste, anyway.

We have curated just a few simple books that you should read if you really are huge on books. The focus is on African (Nigerian) books.

PURPLE HIBISCUS

You should reconsider calling yourself an avid reader and lover of African literature if you have not read Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Why would you even go ahead to read other books of Chimamanda without reading Purple Hibiscus first? It is the first of the first; nobody said so, but it is just how it is. Wait, are you a book lover if you have not read any Chimamanda? Just dey play o.

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Adichie is a beautiful in-depth piece that portrays religion, family, and culture through a family in Eastern Nigeria. It is so practical and real, you can feel yourself standing in a corner of the Achikes’ sitting room watching everything unfold. You can feel yourself bonding over similar experiences with Kambili or you can relate to the Christmas traditions and religious activities.

THE SECRET LIVES OF BABA SEGI’S WIVES

A masterpiece by Lola Shoneyin, it is an all-round captivating story of a typical polygamous, illiterate Nigerian family in the locals, immersed in rivalry, and a sprinkle of paternity fraud.
It unravels and unveils new feels as you read along, keeping you up on your ten toes because you are yet to pinpoint what the central theme is, but you cannot stop reading because you have been gripped by the story.

What better way to start and enjoy your reading journey than to start with such a practical Nigerian story?

MY SISTER IS A SERIAL KILLER

I boldly added this because I know a real book lover should not be shaken at a serial killer title; it’s not even that deep.
This short interesting book by Oyinkan Braithwaite tells the story of two rich sisters: a somewhat erratic spoilt younger sister, the serial killer (hehehe), with her mess always getting cleaned up by a responsible, cool-headed, yet unloved elder sister.

I love this book for its simple diction and different storyline. Also, (I don’t know about others) it gives me a Nigerian feel – the settings and language, you know? A simple diction and setting is an essential part of a starter pack, make sure to check it out.

A BROKEN PEOPLE’S PLAYLIST

As the name suggests, A Broken People’s Playlist by Chimeka Garricks, is a collection of short stories of people who are ‘broken’ – people experiencing different forms of shege.
I recommend it because it is a really lovely book, maybe lovely is not the right word to use for broken people’s stories, but whatever. It is an amazing read, very heartfelt. Each story grips your heart, some more than others, but in all, it is a good reading experience.

It is one of the books on the top of the list of most recent African books. It is among the highlights of most people’s reading lists this year; you should join the gang.