My Book Review Journey
My Book Review Journey
Procrastination truly is a thief of time! I’ve wanted to write this book review since September, hoping to make it a monthly thing, but it’s been a struggle. I’m glad to be here now finally. Reading has been something I always thought about doing; I wasn’t naturally drawn to books, but I admired how intelligent readers seemed, and I wanted to be like them. My dad fueled this interest by stocking our home with books, encouraging us to read one each week, and discussing what we learned. This routine sparked my love for books, from fiction and self-help to encyclopedias and articles — I read everything! 😂
Since September, I’ve read over 10 books, with a focus on Nigerian authors to gain insight into their creative minds. Still, four books stood out for me: A Broken People’s Playlist by Chimeka Garricks, Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorrow by Damilare Kuku, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin, and Tomorrow Died Yesterday by Chimeka Garricks. (Sir, if you ever come across this, just know I love your work and hope you publish even more!) This review might turn into a two-part series, but let’s dive into the first book.
A Broken People’s Playlist by Chimeka Garricks
This was my first encounter with such a unique work of art. Garricks builds stories around songs he’s listened to, creating vivid worlds based on each track. What surprised me most was how some of the stories connected in unexpected ways, which led me to re-read parts to pick up on details I missed. Many of these stories are set in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, adding a familiar and authentic backdrop.
The book features 12 stories of people dealing with different kinds of heartbreak — from losing loved ones to coping with unfulfilled dreams. Here are the three stories that left the deepest impact on me:
- Two Childhood Lovers: The first story follows two childhood friends who never seem to find the right time to be together. Just as it seems their love story might finally take off, one of them is tragically taken by death. I nearly cried; the loss felt so raw, and I couldn’t help but feel for the one left behind, her life would be changed forever.
- The Spoiled Brother’s Farewell: In another story, a spoiled brother, told he has only months to live, throws his funeral. His family gathers, despite his troubled past and the resentment he left in his wake. Raised with little accountability, he was a classic Nigerian “spoilt brat,” protected by his mother and never really facing the harm he caused others. His story, though not sympathetic, felt layered — showing how his flawed character shaped his relationships.
- The “Bastard” Child and the Hospital Romance: This story centers on a young woman often seen by men as someone they could easily exploit. She’s had “daddy issues” that lead her to seek validation from men, yet when she finds someone special in a hospital, her journey seems to shift. It’s a reminder to be comfortable with ourselves before seeking love from others.
There’s so much more to say about A Broken People’s Playlist, but I’ll leave it at that. This book is a must-read, and I’d love to hear what you think when you finish it!
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin
This book opened my eyes to a time in Nigeria’s past, where men often married not for love, but to build a legacy. It was common for men to take multiple wives, and this story delves into that complex family dynamic while shedding light on cultural practices and the overlooked importance of medical knowledge at the time.
The novel revolves around Baba Segi and his four wives, each carrying hidden emotions and secrets. When he marries a fourth, educated wife, the household is thrown into turmoil. The first and third wives, especially, feel threatened, while the second wife is caught between loyalty and envy. Shoneyin tells the story through each character’s perspective, including the husband and even the driver, offering a well-rounded view of the relationships and power plays at work.
- Iya Segi (First Wife): Forced to marry young by her mother, Iya Segi was once resourceful and independent, but her mother feared that her success would keep her unmarried. She arranged Iya Segi’s marriage to Baba Segi, taking all her daughter’s savings to start their life in Ibadan. Iya Segi ultimately finds success selling cement, yet her past continues to influence her relationships with the other wives.
- Iya Tope (Second Wife): Timid and indecisive, Iya Tope grew up in a household where she was seen as lazy and a burden. Her father quickly agreed to marry her off to Baba Segi to relieve himself of her care. Iya Segi helps her settle into the family by teaching her to navigate her role, but Iya Tope remains torn between kindness and resentment toward the new wife, Bolanle.
- Iya Femi (Third Wife): The so-called “prayer warrior” is a fascinating, complex character whose bitterness and ambition shape her actions. Growing up as a servant for a wealthy family, she experienced harsh treatment, which led her to develop a deep-seated resentment. With the help of Baba Segi’s driver, she orchestrates her way into the household. Her cunning and manipulative nature adds energy and tension to the story.
- Bolanle (Fourth Wife): Bolanle, the educated wife, marries Baba Segi out of a desire to escape her past trauma. She sees Baba Segi as a safe choice since he asks no questions and is primarily interested in her education as a status symbol. Her presence in the family unsettles the senior wives, who treat her with cruelty. The intensity of their jealousy leads to tragic consequences, costing them their first child, Segi.
As the story unfolds, Bolanle’s arrival ultimately reveals a shocking truth: despite the many children in Baba Segi’s household, none are biologically his. This revelation devastates Baba Segi, but for Bolanle, it brings a sense of freedom and closure, relieving her of guilt and the label of “barren.” She leaves the family, finally empowered to find a place where she truly belongs.
This story is captivating, heartwarming, suspenseful, and deeply engaging. I learned from it the importance of kindness — towards others and ourselves. Shoneyin’s work is a must-read for anyone interested in stories that explore culture, resilience, and human complexity.
Stay tuned for the second part of this series where I dive into the minds of Chimeka Garricks and Damilare Kuku.
