Reading is not boring. As a matter of fact, reading is therapeutic and very important if you want depression far away from you and if you want to become successful in any career.
Do you know that there are audio books as well? So if you don’t like reading the words – you can listen to them. It’ll save time + you can listen while you do other things too. Think of it as listening to music. Epic Vibe!
Scratch the quote that say “Knowledge is power” and instead start saying “Knowledge is gold and money is power” because if you don’t have knowledge- then how would you think strategically enough to build wealth (generational wealth), wealth that’ll make you leave a solid legacy. Trust me you don’t want to die knowing you left nothing behind for your peeps to enjoy & have them sign the “She/He was here” autograph on your behalf with pride.
Pause and think about it… What would you like to be remembered for?
I’ve put this out here for you to motivate yourself to read more. You can even start with the genre of books you love – it’s more fun and interesting this way.
Okay, let’s dive in to the top ten Nigerian books you should read this period :
There Was a Country By Chinua Achebe
If you have read this book, applaud yourself. But if you’ve not – please go and find this book and read. Wouldn’t you want to know what really happened during the Nigeria-Biafra civil war? I’m sure you don’t even know how it started, or the parts Obasanjo played – was he the mighty war hero or the villain? The blood that was spilled – is that why the Eastern soil is red? Which country helped Nigeria, where did the Biafra soldiers get their ammunition from? How and why did the war end? You have to know all these answers before the next general elections- so that you can fully understand why you should be part of governance.
Chronicles of the Happiest People on Earth By Wole Soyinka
Imagine being inside Wole Soyinka’s head? Ah! I must warn you.. get a dictionary close by when reading this one. The story is deep, imaginative and leaves you with an overwhelming feeling of love, gratitude and contentment. + do you know that this is Wole Soyinka’s first novel in 48 years? It was published in 2021.
We should all be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
I laugh as I write this, because it’s sad that most people hate what they don’t even understand. However, read this book, not for you (because you’ll be shocked). Read it for those around you and find out how you can be a better life teacher to your children. And if after reading this book, you find out that you are a feminist – you owe me a gift.
Second Class Citizen By Buchi Emecheta
I still wonder why the Nigerian Secondary Educational System didn’t provide this book as part of the curriculum for us to read back in secondary school. They had us reading ; Oliver Twist, merchant of Vernice, and the likes.
Look Guys, this book is the real deal. It will make you realize fully that indeed; East and West, Home is the best. You will find that being an immigrant in London is no joke! But I know you still want to go. So read this one first.
The Fishermen By Chigozie Obioma
Keep a handkerchief close by, because this one will melt your hard man fences. It highlights ; Family – Brotherhood- Secrets- Sapa- Love- Guilt- & how to move on from all of the above.
Born on a Tuesday by Elnathan John
This is one of my favorite books about the extreme bondage of religion. It highlights the tragic story of a young Islam boy who finds himself embedded in a political- religious- & violent battle against humanity. Did he get his ten virgins at the end? Find out yourself.
Of This Our Country By Acclaimed Nigerian Writers & Poets
I have a feeling you will really love this book. It highlights deep rooted culture, ideologies and honest opinions about Nigeria in ways that will blow you off. The truth and the voices this book speaks of is important – especially with all the insecurity, leadership failures, corruption, societal issues, and all the cruise and laughter we share online amidst all the challenging chaos we face daily.
A Broken People’s Playlist By Chiemeka Garricks
Learn and read about the sights and struggles of people in Port Harcourt in this heartbreaking and emotional book. Our governor, Wike – is tough, rugged and action focused for a reason. Yes, I am a Port Harcourt girl so die it!
If you think it’s easy to lead waterside people? Think again. The stories here are unforgettable.
Nearly all the Men in Lagos are Mad By Damilare Kuku
This is not news. My ladies would love this one.
The author of this gritty book outlines in several short stories why the title of this book is befitting and if you read it – maybe you’ll agree.
The Girl with The Louding Voice By Abi Daré
I dare not end this list without adding one of my favorite protagonist in a book- Adunni. If there’s any reason why you dislike reading – then this book will inspire you to think otherwise . Adunni’s journey from being an illiterate, poor, and underaged wife will make you appreciate the power of words, resilience and hope in a loud way.
So here you have it. The top ten Nigerian books you definitely should. Have you read any? I know where you can get all of these books and I also know some great audio reading apps you can listen from. Let me know how I can help.
Until next article,
Stay Happy & Safe.
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