Books Like...

'The Missing American' by Kwei Quartey delves into the world of internet scams originating from Ghana, focusing on a wealthy American man who falls victim to a romance scam. The protagonist, Emma Djan, a young private investigator, is drawn into the investigation of the missing American, Gordon Tilson, who traveled to Ghana to meet a woman he met online. As the story unfolds, it reveals the intricate web of cybercrimes, traditional rituals, and corruption in Ghana, shedding light on the underbelly of the country's criminal underworld. The narrative is rich in detail, portraying the vibrant setting of Ghana and painting a vivid picture of the characters involved in the scamming operations.

The plot of 'The Missing American' is filled with suspense and intrigue, exploring themes of vulnerability, loneliness, and the devastating consequences of falling prey to online scams. Through a cast of compelling characters, including Emma Djan, the tenacious investigator, and Gordon Tilson, the victim turned investigator, the book weaves a tale of deception, betrayal, and the quest for justice in the face of adversity. Kwei Quartey's writing style is immersive and insightful, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of modern-day cybercrimes and the human stories behind them.

The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives by Lola Shoneyin is a thought-provoking novel set in Nigeria, centered around Bolanle, the youngest and most educated wife of Baba Segi. The story delves into the complexities of a polygamous family as each wife's secrets and motives are revealed through alternating viewpoints, leading to jealousy, rivalry, and unexpected consequences within the household. The writing style includes vivid details, humor, shocking moments, and a mix of tones ranging from satirical to tragic, providing a deep exploration of Nigerian customs, culture, and traditions.

'Welcome to Lagos' by Chibundu Onuzo is a novel that follows the journey of five individuals who have fled their lives in Niger Delta to seek a fresh start in Lagos. As their paths intertwine unexpectedly with a reluctant benefactor, the story takes on an unconventional Robin Hood-esque twist involving political corruption and unlikely alliances. The book delves into themes of political intrigue, corruption, family bonds, and the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of the vibrant and chaotic city of Lagos.

The narrative of 'Welcome to Lagos' offers a rich portrayal of Nigerian culture and society, capturing the diverse experiences and challenges faced by the characters as they navigate the complexities of life in Lagos. Through vivid storytelling and engaging dialogue, Chibundu Onuzo weaves together the lives of these disparate individuals, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the enduring sense of camaraderie that emerges amidst adversity.

The Fishermen by Chigozie Obioma is a haunting and tragic tale of a Nigerian family torn apart by a madman's prophecy, told through the eyes of a young boy. The story delves into themes of sibling loyalty, cultural conflicts, superstitions, and the impact of political turmoil in Nigeria during the 1990s. The narrative unfolds like a Greek tragedy, with the author skillfully weaving together elements of family dynamics, societal pressures, and the consequences of fate.

Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta is a coming-of-age novel set in Nigeria during the late 1960s civil war. The story follows Ijeoma, a young girl who faces the challenges of war, loss, love, and self-discovery in a society where being LGBTQ is heavily stigmatized. The novel delicately explores the struggles of Ijeoma as she navigates her desires and cultural expectations amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and societal intolerance. The writing style is described as simple, straightforward, and emotionally moving, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities of living in Nigeria during a tumultuous period.

'A Grain of Wheat' by Ngugi wa Thiong'o is a novel set in Kenya during the country's struggle for independence from British colonial rule in the 1950s. The story follows multiple characters who are dealing with the aftermath of war, colonial rule, and personal betrayals. The narrative weaves together themes of oppression, betrayal, disillusionment, and love, creating a vivid portrayal of the complexities present during Kenya's transition to independence. Ngugi wa Thiong'o's writing style is described as bleak, difficult, but worth the effort, as he delves into the dark past of the characters and the atrocities committed during the struggle for freedom.

'A Girl Is a Body of Water' by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi is a coming-of-age story set in Uganda, following the life of Kirabo as she navigates the complexities of growing up in a patriarchal society. The book explores themes of family, tradition, education, and the role of women, providing a glimpse into Ugandan culture and history. Through Kirabo's journey from childhood to adulthood, readers witness her struggles with identity, relationships, and societal expectations, all while uncovering the mysteries of her past and heritage.

The narrative is rich in detail, offering a deep dive into the lives of the characters and the village of Nattetta. Makumbi's writing style is described as engaging, descriptive, and thought-provoking, immersing readers in the world she has crafted. The story weaves together multiple generations, highlighting the interconnectedness of families and the evolution of traditions over time, creating a tapestry of experiences that resonate with readers.

'Stay with Me' by Ayobami Adebayo is a poignant novel set in Nigeria, focusing on the struggles of Yejide and Akin, a couple facing infertility and societal pressure to have children. The story delves into themes of marriage, family, tradition, and the devastating impact of infertility on their relationship. Through alternating perspectives, the author weaves a tale of love, loss, and the complexities of Nigerian culture in the 1980s, creating a rich and emotionally charged narrative that captivates readers.

The writing style of Ayobami Adebayo in 'Stay with Me' is elegant and mature, seamlessly blending the personal struggles of Yejide and Akin with broader themes of societal expectations and cultural clashes. The characters are portrayed as realistic and flawed, drawing readers into their lives and making them emotionally invested in the outcome of their tumultuous marriage. Adebayo skillfully navigates themes of love, betrayal, and resilience, creating a compelling story that resonates long after the final page.

"How Beautiful We Were" by Imbolo Mbue is a novel that delves into the struggles of an African village facing exploitation by an American oil company. The story revolves around Thula, a determined individual who takes a stand against the company's destructive practices, leading to sickness and death in her community. The book is praised for its beautiful prose, emotional exploration of clashing cultures, colonialism, and the villagers' beliefs and superstitions. The plot, although slow-moving and slightly meandering at times, is rich in atmosphere and emotion, with multiple perspectives providing a unique narrative style.

'The Death of Vivek Oji' by Akwaeke Emezi is a heartbreaking and powerful novel that explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the tragedy of being different in Nigerian society. The story revolves around the mysterious death of Vivek Oji, a young genderfluid individual, and is narrated from the perspectives of his friends, family, and Vivek himself. Through flashbacks and multiple viewpoints, the novel delves into Vivek's struggles with societal norms, family expectations, and the complexities of his relationships, ultimately leading to a tragic end that leaves a lasting impact on those who knew him.

The narrative is beautifully written, with a blend of heart-wrenching storytelling and vivid character portrayals that unravel the layers of love, pain, and acceptance surrounding Vivek. Emezi's non-linear structure adds suspense to the plot, drawing readers into the emotional journey of Vivek's life and the aftermath of his death. The novel tackles important topics such as gender identity, cultural expectations, and the quest for self-discovery, creating a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.