A glimpse into the lives of Lagosians in Nigerian Ayo Sogunro's short story collection
Listen now
Description
In this month's Africa: Stories in the 55, we speak with Nigerian novelist Ayo Sogunro, who brings to life- and death - the spirit of Lagos and Lagosians in his collection of short stories and poetry "The wonderful Life of Senator Boniface and other Sorry Tales." From beleagured politicians to self-proclaimed prophets, bridge touts to sentimental  thieves, Sogunro weaves stories about the Lagosian spirit in "The Wonderful Life of Senator Boniface and other Sorry Tales." Original poetry breaks up the 14 stories in a nod to traditional storytelling. Sogunro speaks of death in the preface of the book as sometimes banal, but also extraordinary, as many of his characters make choices that affect the lives of others.
More Episodes
Poignant, upsetting, at times quite funny, the short story collection This Hostel Life, from Nigerian novelist Melatu Uchenna Okorie, elicits a response. Okorie’s stories stem from her life and the lives of others, ranging from childbirth in rural Nigeria to racism in rural Ireland.
Published 09/25/19
Published 09/25/19
In Nigerian author Helon Habila’s latest novel, “Travelers”, Habila brings African expat and migrant stories to life in a number of short stories that are woven into a complex narrative of safety, identity, loss, and love. He also reflects on his own experiences, dealing with homesickness in “a...
Published 06/26/19