Home
About Me
Portfolio

Home
About Me
Portfolio

Tag: maaza mengiste

24 Apr

Drama Fiction Historical

WOMEN AT WAR: A Review of The Shadow King by Maaza Mengiste

by Obiageriaku

1 Comment

“These aren’t the days to pretend you’re only a wife or a sister or a mother”, she says. We’re are more than this – Who…

INSTAGRAM

_obiageriaku

"Yes, I am your daughter," I spat the words back a

"Yes, I am your daughter," I spat the words back at her. "And I will be the Alaafin's wife. And one day, I will be someone's mother. But when will I get to be a person?"

I was gifted this book from @forgereads , and I've got to give a shout out to the awesome O.O. Sangoyomi for this wild literary adventure. Where do I even begin with this book? This book? Oh, it's like a rollercoaster of feels—fantastic, beautiful, and totally heart-wrenching.

Picture this: Ododo, our main character, is like a shining star in a sky full of dull clouds. She's innocent, grounded, and stuck in a tough spot as a blacksmith living in a guild where folks are about as welcoming as a porcupine at a balloon party.

But wait, here's where it gets interesting! Ododo isn't your average blacksmith. Nope, she's got skills that could make even the toughest critic do a double-take. She crafts these stunning golden flowers that are like something out of a fairy tale.

Now, cue the dramatic music because things take a wild turn when she catches the eye of a mysterious homeless wanderer. Yep, Ododo's golden flowers and sweet tunes cast a spell on this guy, and before you know it, her life takes a sharp left turn.

Next thing you know, Ododo's kidnapped and whisked away to Sangote. There she is prepared to wed the Alaafin of the empire, who is a king of Yorubaland. But when she sees him, she remembers that he is the same person she gave her flower to. So in court, she is put through one hell of a life. She goes from an innocent and trusting person to a ruthless calculating queen who may change the future of the whole land and the future of blacksmiths.

Believe me when I say that 2200 characters are too little to pack all the drama that this book contains. You'll just have to experience it for yourselves when it drops on July 2nd. An easy 4.5/ 5

📚A Book Review 📚These Letters End in Tears b

📚A Book Review 📚These Letters End in Tears by Musih Tedji Xaviere

How I thought that I would get through a book called These Letters End in Tears unscathed is beyond me. This story really touched me deeply. It reminded me of two books - The Death of Vivek Oji and a short story titled God's Children Are Little Broken Things, both equally devastating.

These Letters End in Tears centers around a Bessem, a Christian who lives in Cameroon and faces struggles because she's a lesbian in a place where it's not accepted. She meets Fatima, a Muslim who plays soccer with boys and dresses differently to fit in, adding layers of complexity to her journey.

The story jumps around in time, sometimes in the present and sometimes in the past as Bessem recalls memories and writes letters to Fatima. Each of these letters ends with a sense of sadness. While it may seem confusing at first, this style of storytelling adds a special depth to the narrative, allowing readers to truly empathise with Bessem's emotions – her sadness, her longing, and her hope even as the search for Fatima seems futile.

Reading this book evoked a range of emotions in me. It stirred up feelings of frustration and sadness, much like The Death of Vivek Oji did. It's disheartening to see people unable to express themselves freely. Bessem's letters struck a chord with me, and by the end of the book, I found myself shedding tears alongside her. If you enjoy stories that tug at your heartstrings and make you reflect on humanity and the human experience, I highly recommend giving this book a read.

Thank you to @catapult for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

#bookrecommendations
#bookreview
#books
#sapphicreads
#read

📚Book Review - When Trying to Return Home and o

📚Book Review - When Trying to Return Home and other Stories by Jennifer Maritza McCauley
Alright, let's dive a little deeper into the magic of "When Trying to Return Home"

Imagine this: you're amidst the chaos of moving to a new country—emotions high, uncertainty in the air, and the loneliness... OMG, the loneliness😢. It's in this whirlwind of change that McCauley's debut collection lands in your hands like a lifeline (Thank you @catapult ), offering solace and reflection amidst the upheaval

First things first, McCauley's writing style? It's like a warm hug on a chilly day—familiar, comforting, and oh-so-inviting. She has this incredible talent for crafting stories that feel like snapshots of life, capturing the essence of human emotion with every word. As you flip through the pages, you'll find yourself transported to bustling streets, quiet neighborhoods, and everything in between, all through the lens of Black American and Afro-Latino experiences.

What struck me most about this collection is its ability to explore the concept of home in all its complexity. Each story is a journey—a quest to understand where we come from, where we belong, and how we navigate the spaces in between. Whether it's a mother fighting against the odds to reunite her family or a young student grappling with identity in a new environment, McCauley's characters resonate with authenticity and depth.

But it's not just the characters that make this collection shine—it's the themes, the emotions, the moments of quiet introspection that linger long after the final page is turned. As I find myself sorting through present reality, I couldn't help but see reflections of my own journey in the pages of this book. Each story felt like a mirror, reflecting back on my own hopes, fears, and uncertainties about what home truly means.
In a world filled with constant change and uncertainty, this book serves as a reminder that home isn't just a place—it's a feeling, a connection, or a sense of belonging that transcends physical boundaries. So if you find yourself in the midst of a move or simply seeking solace in the pages of a good book, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of McCauley's debut

📚 *Book Review: Promise Boys by Nick Brooks* 📚

💥 Prepare for a thrilling ride with "Promise Boys," a dark academia mystery that keeps you guessing until the end! 💥

🌟 This clever murder mystery follows three boys who become suspects in their principal's shocking murder. J.B., Ramón, and Trey must join forces to uncover the real killer and clear their names.

🔍 I couldn't put this book down! Nick Brooks' engaging writing style pulls you in from the first page. The mixed media format adds an exciting twist.

🔎 The protagonists, from diverse backgrounds, are well-developed and easy to root for. The setting of Urban Promise Prep school feels realistic and relatable.

⚠️ While enjoyable, a significant portion is exposition. The latter half dives into the detective work, but manage expectations—it's more of a murder mystery than a thriller.

✨ "Promise Boys" is a highly enjoyable read, appealing to dark academia and mystery fans. Engaging plot, relatable characters, and a captivating setting make it a gem.

🎬 This story has potential for an HBO limited series! Dive into the world of "Promise Boys" and be immersed in the mystery.

📖 Have you read "Promise Boys" yet? Share your thoughts! 👇✨

There may or may not have been chocolates in my bo

There may or may not have been chocolates in my box 🙈🍫🤣

Thank you @headofzeus for my Advanced Reader Copy of Everything is not Enough by @lolaakinmade .

I can't wait to dive right in 🤓📚

#everythingisnotenough

Tell a friend to tell a friend.....She's back 📢

Tell a friend to tell a friend.....She's back 📢📢

Guess what, everyone? The moment we've all been wa

Guess what, everyone? The moment we've all been waiting for has finally arrived! *Drumroll, please* 🥁 My very first audiobook design is here, and I couldn't be more thrilled! When Genti Media approached me for this incredible project, I was jumping with excitement!

Let me start by saying, can you believe there's a company like this in Nigeria? Yeah, I couldn't either! For all you African literature and audiobook enthusiasts out there, you know the struggle of listening to your favorite African stories with some weird mishmash accent. Ugh, so frustrating, right? 🙄 But fear not, because Genti Media has come to the rescue! They are the ultimate destination for exclusive African stories, narrated in authentic African languages, and brought to life by talented African voices. How awesome is that? It was a total no-brainer for me to jump onboard this fantastic journey!

Introducing "Chronicles of a Runs Girl": Prepare yourselves for a wild ride with this captivating 29-part series that follows Amaka, a runs girl living in Lagos, as she embarks on her thrilling encounters with a colorful cast of characters and finds herself in all sorts of intriguing situations. Brace yourselves for a hilarious and twisted tale that explores the true essence of resilience, survival, romance, and the unexpected joys that can be found amidst life's challenges. The incredible story was written by the amazing @leyeadenle and brought to life by the talented voice of @elmambadiweofficial. Believe me, this is one audiobook you don't want to miss!

Working on this design was an absolute blast, and I poured my heart and soul into it. Now, it's time for you to experience the magic! I hope you'll fall head over heels in love with it, just like I did. So, without further ado, grab your headphones and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of "Chronicles of a Runs Girl."

Psst! Here's the most exciting part: It's now available exclusively on The Genti App. Hurry up, folks, and dive into this epic adventure today! 📚💫 @gentimedia

🌟✨ Calling all book lovers! I've got an extra

🌟✨ Calling all book lovers! I've got an extraordinary historical fiction recommendation for you: 'Dust Child' by Nguyen Phan Que Mai. Prepare to be transported to a different time and place while uncovering a hidden part of history. Let's dive in! 🏞️📖

💥💔 'Dust Child' takes us on a journey through the lives of Amerasians, the children born to Vietnamese women and American GIs during the Vietnam War. Based on meticulous research, author Nguyen Phan Que Mai weaves a gripping and enlightening tale that will leave you wanting more.

🌺📚 The story unfolds through three captivating perspectives: an American GI and his wife returning to Vietnam years after the war, two sisters from the countryside who become "bar girls" for American soldiers, and a young Amerasian man searching for his biological American father. Through their intertwined narratives, we witness the impact of war on their lives and the choices they must confront.

🌍💡 'Dust Child' not only sheds light on an overlooked part of history but also paints a vivid picture of Vietnam's rich culture and traditions. The author's personal connection to the story adds a layer of depth and authenticity that will captivate your heart.

🔥📖 This book is a must-read for fans of stories that uncover hidden historical events, offer multiple timelines and diverse character perspectives, and immerse readers in vibrant settings. If you enjoyed Min Jin Lee's 'Pachinko' or Yaa Gyasi's 'Homegoing,' you're in for a treat with 'Dust Child.'

✨💫 Prepare to be moved, inspired, and challenged as you delve into the pages of 'Dust Child.' Nguyen Phan Que Mai's beautiful prose, suspenseful storytelling, and exploration of love and forgiveness.

So, my bookish friends, grab a copy of 'Dust Child' because This book deserves a prime spot on your reading list! Happy reading! 📚❤️

#read #historicalfiction #readmorebooks #bookrecommendations

💥A Book Review 💥 Let's talk about 'Daughter

💥A Book Review 💥

Let's talk about 'Daughter in Exile' by Bisi Adjapon

From the moment I met Lola, I couldn't help but be captivated by her story. She's a fierce, determined young woman whose dreams take an unexpected turn when she falls for an American Marine. What follows is a heart-wrenching journey as she leaves everything behind to forge a new life in America. But let me tell you, it's anything but easy!

This book delves deep into the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants, the sacrifices they make, and the strength it takes to keep going. Bisi Adjapon's writing is stunning, painting a vivid picture of Lola's struggles and triumphs. I was blown away by the rawness of the relationships, the complexities of family dynamics, and the unfairness of Lola's situation.

But what struck me the most was how this book sheds light on real-life experiences. It's a voice for those who've made similar journeys, facing racism, ignorance, and exploitation. It's a story that will make you angry, frustrated, and ultimately inspired by Lola's resilience.

Now, here's the thing: 'Daughter in Exile' has been slept on, and that's a shame! It deserves more recognition for the powerful narrative it presents. Adjapon's storytelling is soulful and compelling, making it one of my top reads of 2023!

So, if you're ready for a gut-wrenching, yet heartwarming tale, grab a copy of 'Daughter in Exile.' Get ready to be moved, challenged, and reminded of the strength within us all. Let's give this incredible book the love and attention it deserves! 💕✨

💥Book Review💥: "The Middle Daughter" by Chik

💥Book Review💥: "The Middle Daughter" by Chika Unigwe - A Rollercoaster of Emotions That Will Leave You Breathless! 🎢😮✨

Prepare for an emotional journey like no other in "The Middle Daughter" by Chika Unigwe. This book is a masterclass in trauma, grabbing your heart from the start and never letting go. With complex characters and a gripping storyline, it keeps you on the edge of your seat.

From the creepy preacher Ephraim to the raw portrayal of abuse, this book will evoke strong emotions. You'll question choices, feel frustration towards the family's actions, and yearn for justice. But amidst the darkness, there's hope, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit.

Unigwe's writing is powerful, challenging our perceptions of love and family dynamics. It's a heavy read that's worth every page. Get ready for a wild ride and immerse yourself in this poignant and beautifully written tale.

💥A Book Review💥 📚 We Were Fireflies by Ab

💥A Book Review💥 📚 We Were Fireflies by Abubakar Adam Ibrahim @abubakarwrites

I find it so strange that bookstagram has slept on this book because, folks, Abubakar Adam Ibrahim's "When We Were Fireflies" took me on the wildest literary ride. I mean my head was spinning from chapter to chapter. I couldn’t drop this book and every minute I spent away from the story was torture. I just had to finish it.

This is Abubakar's fourth work of fiction and second novel, and it's so amazing. When we were Fireflies centres around a guy named Yerima Lalo, who's lived not one, not two, but three lives. And as if that weren't enough, he's also been murdered twice. Yep, you read that right - murdered twice. The first time, it was a jealous rival on a moving train. The second time, it was his own brother, who got all worked up over a girl named Turai.

So, with a third impending death looming over Yerima's head, what does he do? Does he hide under a rock? Nope. He falls in love again. And as you might expect, it's not smooth sailing. This guy just can't catch a break when it comes to love.In a surprising turn,Yerima's past lives start to surface in his art, which is a pretty nifty trick if you ask me. But then he meets Aziza, and together they try to unravel the mystery of his triple existence
Throughout the book, we see themes of reincarnation, love, violence, trauma, and forgiveness. Yerima's journey towards forgiveness is a key part of the story, as he learns to let go of his hurt and move on. This is a powerful message, and Abubakar Adam Ibrahim delivers it with finesse.

Overall, 'When We Were Fireflies' is an impressive work of fiction that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Abubakar's writing is both thought-provoking and engaging, and he's not afraid to tackle the big issues. We owe him a debt of gratitude for opening up northern Nigeria to the world and sharing its stories with us.

I can't wait for the big reveal🎆 can you? #boo

I can't wait for the big reveal🎆 can you?

#bookcoverdesign #bookcoverart

💥Book Review Alert💥 Don’t Answer When They

💥Book Review Alert💥
Don’t Answer When They Call your Name by Ukamaka Olisakwe
@msolisakwe

It’s a hot Thursday night, my T-shirt is so drenched in sweat that it sticks to me like second skin. As if things couldn’t get any worse, my good for nothing fan is better at making screeching sounds than actually doing what it was created to do.

However, I couldn’t care less because I’ve been transported to the wonderful, mystical world of Ukamaka Olisakwe’s latest book, Don't Answer When They Call Your Name. If you've been following me long enough, you’ll know that I love, looooooove Ukamaka’s work. Her debut Ogadinma is a masterpiece and if you haven’t read it yet just know that I am shooting you a very bombastic side eye. Just kidding, but seriously you’ll need to hop on it.

Don’t Answer When They Call Your Name is a young adult novel that centres on a young girl, Adanne. Adanne has been chosen in true hunger games fashion as a tribute to atone for a sin that transcends her time and world. She is hand-picked by the oracle to save her people and as such she must brave the Forest of Iniquity alone. Just one thing, no child chosen has ever made it back to the Village. As the threat of an impending drought threatens to destroy her village, Adanne forges through worlds unknown to tip the scales in her favour and end her peoples suffering.

Let me just say that I am so excited for the younger generation because the quality of books and literary content that they have access to, is just mind-blowing. Let’s face it, we didn’t have so many inclusive books growing up, where the heroine looks like us, talks like us and sports our gorgeous kinky hair as a crown. That’s why this book is so important, young black people need to see themselves in the books they read. Don’t Answer When They Call Your Name is a book that does just that. I was hooked from the very first chapter so much so that I did not move from my seat until I had completely globbed up every word. Ukamaka Olisakwe has done it again and honestly I can not wait for everyone to get completely immersed in the wonderful world of Ani Mmadu.

Don’t Answer When They Call Your Name is out in Bookstores on May 16th 2023.

Hit 👍🏾or miss👎🏾 Ogadinma by @msolisak

Hit 👍🏾or miss👎🏾

Ogadinma by @msolisakwe would always have a special place in my heart. Aside from it being a fantastic read, it was the first ARC I ever received from a publisher as a new time bookstagrammer. I hope I was able to do it justice🤞🏾
.
.
.
.
#bookworld #bookcoverart #bookcoverdesign #illustration #illustrators #readersofinstagram #readers #readersofig

SPARE by PRINCE HARRY: A Book Review 📖 It goi

SPARE by PRINCE HARRY: A Book Review 📖

It going to be difficult to rate this book because how exactly do you rate a person's life?

To be quite honest this book was so strong in some parts that I almost tricked myself into believing the entire book was exceptional. It's not. It is just.... alright?

That being said, I really appreciated Prince Harry's narration style. It truly felt like we were together in a therapy session and he was unburdening himself. So raw, visceral, and overwhelmingly sad. Other than feeling deeply personal and sad, nothing else was really shocking to me nor did I feel he took to task Empire or colonialism quite enough, but I hope he continues this journey to peace and family.

This is a very long memoir, and I had to absorb it in pieces and while doing other things because the grief is really really palpable.

My only critic is that Part Two of the book could have been shorter and honestly we really didn't need all that information on his frostbitten appendage.

#spare #princeharry #bookreview #bookrecommendations #booklovers

And Another one! If you are not reading @mr.garric

And Another one!
If you are not reading @mr.garricks books, then what exactly are you reading🤔.

This is attempt no. 4 at book cover illustrating & I loved re- creating this as much as I loved reading this awesome book. How did I do on a scale of 1- 10

#bookcover #illustrators #bookworld #booklovers

BOOK Review 📚 A Spell of Good Things by Ayobami

BOOK Review 📚 A Spell of Good Things by Ayobami Adebayo

If 'Nigeria happened to you' was a book then guys, this is the book!!

Ayobami Adebayo truly out did herself with this beautiful and heartbreaking story.I honestly did not want to put this book down from start to finish.

The book is set in Nigeria following two characters from families of wildly different backgrounds and social class. We are shown the disparities that exist between the poor and the elite in Nigeria, the public healthcare issues, and the sham that is Nigerian politics( I read this during election period, so yeah, bodi dey pepper me).

The pace is slow, but I promise you, it is worth it because the author is taking her time to build up these larger than life characters. There are so many scenes that will be forever etched in my memory. One thing is for sure, I will not be forgetting this book in a hurry.

Eventually we see our characters' lives intertwine, and see how wealth and status can't protect you from the same fates. ( Cuz E go reach everibodi)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

#bookreview #reads #aspellofgoodthings #ayobamiadebayo #bookworms

Yay 👍🏾or Nay👎🏾 I've been going throug

Yay 👍🏾or Nay👎🏾

I've been going through my old books at my parents and I found this gem, Purple Hibiscus by @chimamanda_adichie and I just had to do an illustrated bookcover for it.

Purple Hibiscus brings back so many memories. I remember staying up all night, dissecting the book with my friends at boarding school. I think it was actually the first book I ever bought with my own money.

I'm not going to lie I struggled with this illustration because I wasn't sure I could do Kambili justice. Anyways here we are, let me know what you think in the comments 👇🏿 😘

#bookcover #bookcoverart #illustrations #chimandangoziadichie #purplehibiscus

Hit👍🏾 or Nah 👎🏾 I just finished readi

Hit👍🏾 or Nah 👎🏾

I just finished reading this 📖 📕: the Politicians Wife by @authorvanessamiller and I was inspired to recreate the book cover. How did I do?

I finished reading this in a day and guess what guys it's a Christian Romance novel by a BIPOC author.

Here's the Blurb

Can a man still love a woman even when she has destroyed his career and turned him away from the principles he lives by?

Eric Morrison’s wife, Linda, hits a football superstar while driving drunk, and Eric tries to cover it up. But Linda is now ready to atone for her sins. With help from unexpected places, she finds the strength to stop drinking and gives her life to Christ. Eric is thrilled when his wife stops drinking. However, when she tells him that she wants to start an organization that helps recovering alcoholics put their lives back together and that she intends to use some of his father’s foundation money to do it, Eric rejects the idea, convinced that it will put his bid for governor at risk.

Then a blackmailer threatens to reveal pictures of his wife’s drunk-driving accident unless he receives ten million dollars. Eric must decide whether he will stand up for the truth that his father taught him and that his wife also believes in or sell his soul for public office.

#bookcover #bookcoverart #bookcoverdesign

Load More Follow on Instagram

2024 - Obiageriaku. All Rights Reserved.