Orimili

Shortlisted for the 1992 Commonwealth Best First Book Award. Orimili is the profound story of a father desperate to deepen his cultural roots and find identity within his community. Despite the respect and wealth Orimili has accumulated over the years, there remains one last barrier to his recognition – the title of Ozo. The most important symbol of nobility and honour, he is desperate to finally have the status he deserves. But gaining the town elders' respect proves more difficult than he ever could have imagined. Writing with remarkable poise, Amechi Akwanya charts Orimili's difficult journey to citizenship, offering a compelling insight into the customs of mid-twentieth century Nigeria.