Decoration of faith - Book Review by Benny Okafor

 

I read a book of about 110 pages written by Ngozi Ebubedike. It is a captivating piece drawn directly from the Bible, the story of Hannah. Ngozi aptly called her book the Decoration of Faith. It is a putting together of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of daunting difficulties and reproaches. It is about the profiling and stigmatization a woman suffers due to inability to achieve pregnancy. But if you want it that badly, if you talk your desire long enough, and make the right sacrifices, no matter how long the reproach sustained, the yoke definately would be broken by the anointing attracted by your faith. 

Ngozi Ebubedike did something extraordinary with this book. She made it easy for those who couldn't get to the Bible to look up 1 Samuel Chapters 1 and 2 inorder to dig into the story of Hannah, Elkanah, Peninnah, Eli and Samuel; with colour and uncanny imagination, she built a contemporary story with fictional allure around it, and made it easy for anyone to thoroughly understand the fight of faith from the standpoint of childlesness and how to overcome it. 

Go and read this book. Shalom. 

Benny Okafor is the author of the Heaven's Dream Series.

The Street Tears By Davy Fidel (Book Review)

The Street Tears is a poetry book with forty poignant poems that explore the theme of suffering, pains, disappointment, death and especially the hard life on the street. The poems are codifications of anguish, tears and hopelessness.

The author, Davy Fidel, weaved a tapestry of melancholy with creative words that pull at one’s heartstrings. He used every poetic artillery to capture and hold the reader's interest to the end. The author wrote the poems around emotions that string pain in the heart and events that sprout tears in the eyes. The second poem in the book, I WEPT “When I read my pages, I wept. It encryption … Cuneiform! Crest in the heart Like the devil in the cathedral” I will say the poem set the mood of the book because when I read the poems, I wept at the graphic narration of the sufferings and pains that echo on every page of the book. The insecurity, unknown gunmen, and kidnappings that ravaged the country. Deaths that leave gaping holes in the heart, the killings going on unchecked, injustice and miseries that mark our daily lives. “Misery is a painted art Agony is a pillow the head rest on” The author laments in one of his poems, ROSES IN PLAGUE In the poem, RAT WORLD, the author tells of the rat race of living life in the street. “The street is a rat world Wired with dreams trimmed And fried with hopelessness With unending potholes lives” This poem reiterates another poem in the book, POTHOLES, where the author likens his life to potholes, “My life is potholes Galloping every second Every minute with bruises Every hour of tormenting Like the flea in a hot pan” The poetry book is divided into five parts of ten poems each. In the last part of the book, the author asks, WHAT DOES TOMORROW HOLD? It is a poem that buttresses the crumbling world we live in. “When I look at the pieces around me I ask myself with a shattered voice What does tomorrow hold?” But, according to the author, “Tomorrow standing battered Our tears flooding us Our words crushing us Our lives procreating pain” The poems in this part paint a picture of hopelessness, where the future of the country and its people are tattering on wobbling legs of uncertainty. This part also talks about GARBAGE LIFE, how we live a LIFELESS LIFE, the way LIFE IS STOLEN from us, how we BEG TO HAVE TOMORROW, the way we live our lives THIS EVERYDAY, and what our TODAY looks like. The poems in the book are indeed words on marble. They tell the stories of yesterday and of today for tomorrow. A history recorded in poetic verses for the next generation.

https://www.amazon.com/STREET-TEARS-Davy-Fidel/dp/9789703112?ref_=ast_author_mpb

Review by Dr Ngozi Ebubedike Ladyzizi Bookworld.

Review of Building Intimacy By John Chinaka Onyeche

Romantic love has a hidden desire and is possessive. With time, feelings such as jealousy, impatience, misunderstanding, lust, discord, and strife rock the relationship. Because physical qualities and desires are the foundation, it topples. When the chemistry and attraction dry up, love shrinks, and we notice and point out negative things and hold grudges." - Ngozi Ebubedike. Building Intimacy. 

Picking up this book written for Love, I have often asked myself a thousand and one questions as to know if I should read the book or just let it be because it is for love/lovers which I can only see myself out of the entire story of love/loving to an extent. 

Ngozi's insights on love and intimacy expanded my understanding of what love should be. Each chapter prompts introspection and provides answers that come like a powerful gust of wind.

How else should a work of art hold you bound, I leave such a question from this wonderful book for you to answer after reading it. 

Starting from the first chapter to the last, Ngozi held her readers with care and helped them walk through the lanes and lens of a retrospective moment to know from where they have fallen from this emotion called love/loving. 

I - intentionally

N - nurture 

T - traits 

I - inclined to 

M - motivate 

A - affectionate 

C - comradeship 

Y - your partner 

This is her definition of intimacy and if you truly go through it, you will believe me that many of us are nowhere to be found in this thing called love/loving. 

I think I should be using "Loving", instead of love. 

From its forward, there was this scenario that was created to depict what most of us call intimacy or love in short. 

'The sales girl gave us a different taste of each with disposable plastic mini cups to help us choose. We sipped, trashed the cup, and waited to sample the next one. That is how modern-day relationships have reduced the integrity of love.' 

Pictures upon pictures of what deplorable condition our human world has left love to and the aftermath of this negative impact of everyone tasting and not for the sake of maintenance but 'since it is plenty in the market, let me see the next one' mindset is wracking havocs already. 

"in today's world, genuine love is in short supply, and intimacy is a lesser travelled route. People no longer have long-term plans for relationships. They are after the here-and-now thrills."  

For me, this is a must-come-back-to-read book of all time and I will be glad to recommend it to you if you have anything to do with finding and maintaining an intimate relationship with anyone. Add this book to your shelf and thank me later. 

Finally, in her exact words, "We put much stock in finding a partner for a relationship. But after a short while, we forget why we are in a relationship and discard all the show of care and affection exhibited at the beginning." 

Go get your copy of this book today and find out more than I can write here. 

https://selar.co/16i3w0

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CD125J4L

The Travails of Omotejomo and Trophy Husband. A Review.

 

The Travails of Omotejomo and Trophy Husband, Romance Novels by Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor: A Review

By

James Ugochukwu Okpe

Human and Gender Equality Advocate

Executive Director

African Centre for Entrepreneurship and Information Development-ACEIDEV

 

I have not read a book page to page for a long time till I attended the book launch of the duo masterpieces, “The Travails of Omotejomo and Trophy Husband” by Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor.

She brought to fore and poured her experiences as a mother, mentor of many young women and gender parity advocate, the challenges faced by the female gender in a patriarchal society. Through compelling story telling skills and word smithing she brought to life the optimism that being a female does not constitute a barrier to achieving one’s aims in life.

The Travails of Omotejomo

Reading Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor's novel "The Travails of Omotejomo" was nothing short of an emotional journey that touched my heart in ways I hadn't anticipated. The novel's powerful narrative brilliantly depicts the struggles and triumphs against all odds of Jomo, a brave young girl born into a culture where female children are undervalued compared to their male counterparts.

From the very beginning, I was drawn into Jomo's world, feeling a deep sense of empathy for the loss of her virginity in her quest to meet the deadline for the registration of West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC). Her innocence and determination to pursue her dream were exploited by the very person that ought to guard and protect her, her school teacher, Mr. Jacob. Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor, here painted in detailed description, sexual exploitations young girls are capable of facing in learning institution.

Jomo continues to face a society that sought to limit her potential based on her gender. Her refusal to accept an early forced marriage to Mazi Ibe, a man old enough to be her father and her determination to pursue her dream of becoming a medical doctor showcased her unwavering spirit and strength of character.

One of the most poignant aspects of the novel was Jomo's journey to the city of Ibadan to pursue her dreams, with the loving support of her maternal aunt, auntie Kohwo. This part of the story beautifully captured the complexities of leaving home and venturing into the unknown in pursuit of one's aspirations. As a reader, I found myself rooting for Jomo, hoping she would find the success and happiness she so rightly deserved under Dr. Ufuoma, younger sister to Ochuko the husband of Auntie Kohwo.

Ejiro’s introduction of Tega, Jomo's loving and protective boyfriend, added a tender layer to the novel. Tega's untiring support and dedication to shielding her from harm highlighted the true essence of love and the power of standing by someone through thick and thin. Their relationship became the emotional anchor of the story, and their love story will resonate deeply with many readers.

However, the novel took a harrowing turn when Jomo fell victim to the despicable actions of Kola Kadiri, a.k.a KK, who took advantage of her vulnerability. Ejiro brought to bear her feminist advocacy here to fearlessly delve into the sensitive subject of sexual assault, date rape and drugging for sex, another challenge young girls are confronted with frequently, addressing it with sensitivity and authenticity. Jomo's strength and resilience in the face of such traumatic experience showcased the power of healing and the importance of a support system. The bulk of her support came from Tega, a victim of boy-child rape, having being raped by his nanny at a tender age of eight years.

As the story unfolded, Jomo's journey towards becoming a medical doctor and the challenges she overcame made her transformation even more inspiring. The depth of character development was commendable, and I found myself emotionally invested in her growth and triumphs.

"The Travails of Omotejomo" is a testament to the endurance of love and the strength of the human spirit. Jomo and Tega's eventual marriage and graduation as medical doctors painted a beautiful picture of love prevailing over adversity and dreams coming true despite all odds.

In conclusion, Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor has crafted a touching and heartrending tale of resilience and love in "The Travails of Omotejomo." The novel beautifully navigates sensitive themes while highlighting the power of determination and the importance of firm support from loved ones. This is a novel that will stay with me for a long time, serving as a reminder of the strength that lies within us to overcome life's trials and embrace the power of love and self-discovery.

 Trophy Husband 

"Trophy Husband" a captivating romance piece that weaves a tale of heartbreak, betrayal, and the indomitable spirit of a young Nigerian woman named Isio. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria and London, this novel takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions as Isio navigates the treacherous waters of love, deception, and self-discovery. Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor showcased her versatility of native and foreign culture of Uhrobo tribe in Nigeria and metropolitan culture of the English people in London England.

 

At the heart of the story lies Isio, whose life is shattered by the heartbreak caused by her unfaithful partner, Dafe, who betrayed her with her own best friend, Afoke. The pain of this betrayal is palpable and sets Isio on a quest for retaliation and healing.

In a bold move, Isio opts for an arranged marriage with Okeme, the charming and supposedly wealthy heir-apparent to the Irikefe dynasty, through his influential mother, Mama London. Despite knowing very little about Okeme, Isio embarks on a journey to faraway London, fueled by hope and determination to find a new beginning.

However, upon meeting Okeme in London, Isio is confronted with yet another shocking revelation - he has a live-in lover, Elena. To protect her own interests and preserve the illusion of being Okeme's cousin, Isio resorts to deceit. This adds layers of complexity to the story, as Isio grapples with her emotions and the desire for a genuine connection.

Ejiro skillfully delves into the clash of cultures and traditions, highlighting the struggles faced by Isio in her new environment. Her experiences in London mirror the challenges many individuals encounter while trying to adapt to a foreign country and its norms. Most millennial with “Jappa syndrome” mentality have the illusion that the streets of western countries are paved with gold, and everything work with a flip of the fingers.

Amidst the trials and tribulations, Isio encounters Madam Bose, a sex trafficker, who nearly lures her into prostitution. This dark encounter serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by vulnerable individuals in foreign lands. As a mentor of many young ladies in her Gals Hangout group, I am sure she has had course to guide young ladies to weigh their option explicitly before falling to the allure of jappa syndrome and landing themselves in more complex trouble than they are running from.

Throughout her journey, Isio finds solace in the company of Maxwell, a Scott and church member who develop feelings for her. Their blossoming relationship adds a touch of warmth and tenderness to the story, as they navigate the complexities of love and the heart's desires.

The strength and resilience exhibited by Isio in fighting against all odds to build a life with Okeme are commendable. As a metaphor for many young women and their struggles in the dating game, Isio's character resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level.

Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor's storytelling prowess shines through in "Trophy Husband," crafting well-rounded characters and a captivating plot. However, some aspects of the narrative could have been further developed, such as the backstories of secondary characters like Elena and Madam Bose.

In conclusion, "Trophy Husband" is a compelling romance novel that explores the complexities of love and the resilience of the human spirit. Ejiro Joyce Otive-Igbuzor's portrayal of Isio's journey of revenge, self-discovery, and eventual redemption is sure to leave readers enthralled.

Believe me, when you start with the first paragraph, you will be so addicted to the stories, plots, and adrenaline pumping suspense till the last page. If caution is not applied, you may skip your lunch or dinner. It took me less than 48 hours to read  these books.

“The Travails of Omotejomo and Trophy Husbands” by Ejiro Otive Igbuzor are a must-read. Having gone through them, I hereby recommend this masterpiece for parents, young adults, mentors and anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged tale of love, romance and survival.

Sacrifice of Peace by Chike. G. Okeze (Reviewed by Ngozi Ebubedike)

Sacrifice of peace is set in a remote village in the eastern part of Nigeria. The book explores some myths and superstitions prevalent in our society, especially in some parts of Igbo land, where it is believed that a woman who experiences delay in getting married or giving birth is because she has a spiritual or marine husband. She would need to undergo some cleansing rites and sacrifice to free her from the gripe of a spirit husband. This brings to mind Elechi Amadi’s book, The Concubine.

When Arunma fails to give birth after many years of marriage, Ugonna, her husband and Ahurole, her mother urged her to undergo a sacrificial cleansing to break the covenant between her and her marine husband, to which she reluctantly agreed. After that, she gave birth to the much-awaited child, Amadi, but at the expense of her husband’s life.

Amadi, the protagonist of the story is known for his brave acts in his village of Umueze. After the death of his mother, he went to live with his maternal grandmother, Ahurole, at Umuagu village where he meet and falls in love with Udoka from Achala, a neighbouring village. Blinded by his love for Udoka, Amadi disregards the communal feud between the two communities and the inherent danger of being caught and killed by members of Achala community, to pursue the love of his life.

The book is replete with folklore as Ahurole, Amadi’s grandmother is a great storyteller. The scene of the children gathering around a bonfire to listen to the elderly woman is very nostalgic for people who grew up in the village and a reminiscence of tales by moonlight, the stories are told under the illuminating light of a full moon. The thrilling aspect of the folklore is the singing and the responding choruses by the children.

The author, Chike Okeze shows through his book, Sacrifice of Peace, that embracing peace is more beneficial to communities than war and animosities. And that love is stronger than hatred.

The chapters flow seamlessly in simple and understandable English spiced with Igbo words, idioms and proverbs. Chike Okeze showcases the cultural ambience of the Igbo tradition. 

The author deviated from the usual practice of using opening and closing quotes to mark direct speeches, however, it was not sustained as there are quotation marks in some of the direct speeches.

The book is a good read for both young and old. It gives an insight into some of our culture, traditional beliefs and rites. Also, the theme of love and romance were well crafted in the book.