A Spell of Good Things - Ayòbámi Adébáyò

 A Spell of Good Things - Ayòbámi Adébáyò

This is a story of modern Nigeria with its wide economic disparity and political upheaval.  It is a world where who your parents are is more important to your success than your abilities; an environment where children whose parents can’t afford to pay their private school costs are beaten.  Wuraola’s parents are wealthy; she is a doctor doing a medical residency, about to be engaged to the son of another wealthy man with political aspirations.  Eniola’s family is dirt poor ever since his father lost his teaching position when history jobs were eliminated.  They barely have anything to eat, owe back rent and back tuition.  Wuraola and Eniola’s world collide tragically when Eniola tries to help his family by working for a local politician. This same politician is running against Wuraola’s intended’s father.

I wasn’t sure about this book when I chose it, but I really liked it.  It is heartbreaking, but so well written with fully developed characterizations that it quickly won me over. There are many important concepts here, presented with poignancy and a bit of humor. I did feel that the ending was somewhat rushed; I wish there would have been more of an explanatory denouement.   It takes a while to get into the book, but don’t give up; it is a very worthwhile read.

Thanks to #netgalley and #knopf for the ARC.

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