From Friday to Tuesday, this long weekend gives you reading time like no other. What better subject to read about than our very own city of Lagos, Nigeria? Here is a list of 5 engaging novels set in Lagos, you would like to follow along with this four-day weekend.
Blackass by Igoni Barret
This is hands down, the best book about Lagos. Igoni was not raised in Lagos, but he describes the city in vivid details never seen before. From popular spots on the Island to the dodgy sections on the Mainland, the story follows a Nigerian who wakes up as a white man one morning. The plot will have you hooked from start to the unexpected twist at the end. A note of caution though: Do not rush through this book! There are memorable quotes and moments you would want to note down and bring up in conversations later.
The Spider King’s Daughter by Chibundu Onuzo
Chibundu was just 17 years old when she wrote this novel, thus there is an aching innocence in how Lagos is portrayed. Street hawking has a glamorous side to it especially the scene where The Hawker and Abike sit on her jeep and talk about their lives. Young romance is woven into this tale that quickly spins into a legal thriller and asks you to choose sides even when you may not want to. Ironically, Chibundu’s latest novel is entitled Welcome to Lagos and will be released early next year.
Everything Good Will Come by Sefi Atta
Reading this book as a secondary school student, I instantly identified with the main character, Enitan. This is a coming-of-age story to own and a great lens to explore what Lagos used to be in the 1970s. The Lagos Lagoon holds a mysterious allure through the fence that separates it from Enitan’s home. Sefi gives voice to a number of social issues that remain relevant in today’s society
The House My Father Built by Adewale Maja Pearce
This is a quick and delightful read. It is an autobiography that follows the events that unfold when the author returns back to Nigeria to claim one of his Father’s properties in Lagos. I recommend this book more for its introduction to the Lagos mentality and streetwise advice. You can learn how to evict erring tenants and freeloading friends. My best takeaway was if someone calls the Police for you in Lagos, they want you dead.
The Baron of Broad Street by El Nukoya
El-Nukoya’s second novel based in Lagos following his maiden novel, Nine Lives creates a story spun around the people of Lagos; their attitudes and ambitions. Even the rats on the streets of Lagos have a voice in this novel. The ills of the society plague the main character as a battle involving corruption, deceit, and romance ensues. It took El Nukoya 7 years to complete this story, so if you enjoy a well-prepared book, this is one for you.
Check out these titles from a bookstore near you.
