Top 8 must-read Nigerian books of all times

Today, we’re excited to list the top must-read Nigerian books. So, if you read Nigerian literature, tighten your seatbelt for a long ride. We have listed books by some of the most outstanding Nigerian writers from historical and present-day Nigeria. If you have any book you feel should have been included on the list; please leave it in the comment box for our consideration.

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1. Things Fall Apart – by Chinua Achebe

If you are looking for a timeless masterpiece of African literature, “Things Fall Apart” is the book for you. This Nigerian book continues to captivate readers with its profound exploration of culture, tradition, and the collision of worlds. 

Achebe’s storytelling prowess and ability to vividly depict the Igbo society of pre-colonial Nigeria make this novel a compelling and thought-provoking read. No wonder it awarded its author the Nigerian National Trophy for Literature and the Margaret Wong Memorial Prize in 1959.

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This Nigerian literary masterpiece resonates with readers across generations. Undoubtedly, it’s a must-read for anyone interested in African literature; hence, you couldn’t miss out on our list of the top 8 must-read Nigerian books.

2. The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives – by Lola Shoneyin

This is another Nigerian masterpiece and an award-winning book you may not afford to leave on the shelves. It won the PEN Oakland 2011 Josephine Miles Literary Award and the 2011 ANA/Ken Saro-Wiwa Prose Prize.

Set in contemporary Nigeria, the book revolves around the polygamous household of Baba Segi, a prosperous and traditionalist man with four wives. One of the novel’s strengths lies in its well-developed characters.

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Baba Segi’s wives—Bolanle, Iya Tope, Iya Femi, and Iya Segi—have unique and distinct personalities, and the narrative alternates between their perspectives. As the author unveils the secrets and truths of their lives, you will gain a deeper understanding of their individual experiences and motivations.

3. Purple Hibiscus – by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

How must we talk about top Nigerian books of all time and not mention a book by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie? No way! She’s one of the most prominent African writers of all time. No wonder her book “Purple Hibiscus” made it to our list.

It is a compelling and emotionally charged novel published in 2003. Surprisingly, it is Adichie’s debut novel and a powerful exploration set against the backdrop of post-colonial Nigeria.

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The story unveils from the perspective of Kambili Achike, a young girl growing up in a wealthy and devoutly Catholic family. Her father, Eugene, is a strict and authoritarian figure who rules the household with a heavy hand. The family’s life revolves around the church, and Eugene is a respected member of the community, but his religious zeal is coupled with abusive behaviour towards his wife and children.

4. Stay with Me – by Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀

This is another poignant and powerful novel written by Nigerian author Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀. This Nigerian book is a profoundly moving exploration of love, family, and infertility set in contemporary Nigeria.

One of the novel’s strengths is its portrayal of complex, multifaceted characters. Yejide and Akin are flawed and relatable, and their struggles and vulnerabilities are bare for the reader to see. The narrative alternates between their perspectives, providing a deep understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and motivations.

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The title, “Stay with Me,” takes on a poignant and symbolic meaning throughout the novel, representing the longing for love, connection, and the desire for things to remain as they once were.

5. Half of a Yellow Sun – by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“Half of a Yellow Sun” is another remarkable book by Nigerian author Chimamanda, published in 2006. The story revolves around three characters: Ugwu, a young and impressionable houseboy; Olanna, a beautiful and intellectual woman from a privileged family; and Richard, a British writer who has come to Nigeria to document Igbo art. These characters and others are intricately woven into the narrative, providing multiple perspectives on the war and its devastating consequences.

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Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s writing is exquisite, and her storytelling skills are masterful. She vividly describes the landscapes, cultures, and lives of the people caught amid war-torn Nigeria. The characters are deeply human and multifaceted, making it easy for readers to empathize with their joys, sorrows, and struggles.

6. You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty – by Akwaeke Emezi

“You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty” is another must-read contemporary book by a Nigerian writer. Akwaeke Emezi is a New York Times bestselling author and National Book Award finalist. This is his first romance novel, his third adult novel, and it follows Feyi Adekola, a Nigerian-American visual artist, as she heals from the trauma of widowhood and finds new love.

It’s been five years since the accident that killed the love of her life, and she’s almost a new person now—an artist with her studio and sharing a brownstone apartment with her ride-or-die best friend, Joy, who insists it’s time for Feyi to ease back into the dating scene. Feyi isn’t ready for anything serious, but a steamy encounter at a rooftop party cascades into a whirlwind summer she could have never imagined: a luxury trip to a tropical island, decadent meals in the glamorous home of a celebrity chef, and a significant curator who wants to launch her art career.

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It’s a brilliant novel we never wanted to miss out on from our list of the top 8 must-read Nigerian books. Get yourself a copy to ride on with the story!

7. My Sister, the Serial Killer – by Oyinkan Braithwaite

“My Sister, the Serial Killer” is a darkly comedic and suspenseful Nigerian book published in 2018. This novel quickly gained attention for its unique premise and engaging narrative style.

The story centres on Korede, a nurse, and her younger sister, Ayoola. Korede is the responsible and level-headed older sister working at a Lagos hospital. On the other hand, Ayoola is beautiful and charming and has a troubling habit of killing her boyfriends. Korede finds herself between her loyalty to her sister and her moral dilemma regarding Ayoola’s actions.

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Oyinkan Braithwaite’s writing is sharp and witty. She skillfully blends humour with suspense, creating an entertaining and thought-provoking narrative. The novel’s brevity and fast-paced plot make it a quick and engaging read, and the short chapters add to the sense of urgency.

8. A Particular Kind of Black Man – by Tope Folarin

“A Particular Kind of Black Man” is a novel written by Tope Folarin, a Nigerian-American author. Published in 2019, it is a deeply personal and introspective exploration of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience in the United States. The story revolves around the life of the protagonist, Tayo, who was born to Nigerian parents but grew up in the United States.

One of the novel’s standout features is its introspective and emotionally rich narrative. Tope Folarin’s writing delves deep into Tayo’s thoughts and emotions, offering readers a close and empathetic look at the complexities of his identity as a first-generation immigrant. The narrative consists of moments of self-discovery, reflection, and cultural reconciliation.

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Conclusion

Nigerian literature boasts a rich and diverse tradition, with many outstanding works that have made a significant impact both nationally and internationally. But those are some of the Nigerian books that caught our sight of late. If you have a book you want us to feature in our weekly literature blogs, feel free to contact us or leave your suggestion in the comment box below.

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