This debut novel by Chukwuebuka Ibeh is a rewarding read; I devoured it and enjoyed discussing it at book club.
It’s a layered queer/family story about a boy, Obiefuna, who slowly realises he loves boys, but is sent off to a boarding school after his father catches him in a compromising position with the young boy working in the home. His mother, Uzoamaka, is bereft about losing her favourite son, but is unable to go against her husband’s wishes. She has always had a special bond with her sensitive, dancing son.
At school, Obiefuna finds himself falling in lust, falling in love, and making friends. The regime is tough and the toilet blocks and bullying take getting used to, but Obiefuna carves out his own place in this sometimes brutal world of repression, power, and sex.
As Obiefuna grows up and starts to express and own his desires, we see a growing menace of violence and repression in the world outside, but also the building of a lively community. Can they keep each other safe as the persecution of queer and gay people escalates in the country?
I think the inclusion of so much perspective from the mother is really clever, making for an expansive and layered read. I love the character of Uzoamaka and her deep love for her children, her bewilderment and compassion for life and how it turned out.
Read this if you want to explore feelings of desire and belonging, to dive into family bonds and relationships.
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