Reading this novel was just something I did to pass time, something I just picked up casually to read. It was on reading list for different schools and even a novel for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Although the novel was not a material for my time, I will say it was a nice read and it was time worth while
The book introduces Jimi Solade as the main character, an intelligent, good-looking, athletic teen in his last year of secondary school, which he's determined to make the best. His life starts to crack with the appearance of his estranged brother, Wole, who has a shadowy past. Curiosity and mystery draw close as Efua Coker, the snobbish new girl with a traumatic backstory, joins Forcados in her last year.
Things get interesting as the lab equipment gets stolen as a result of the missing key entrusted in Jimi's hand lead to dire consequences, with personal issues that force Jimi to grow up. The novel blatantly explores themes like coming of age under pressure, family, loyalty, responsibility, child abuse, stigma, friendship, and self discovery.
Reading this book, I was shocked how much one can go for family and how family members can also exploit one of their loyalty. Jimi was ready to risk it all for his brother, Although Wole is not all that 'bad', he was ready to take advantage of his brother's loyalty and empathy, he feels like could always fall back to his brother whenever he commits or causes trouble, forgetting that he is the older brother and he is meant to look out for Jimi not the other way around. I also realize how bad rumors, gossip, and stigmatization can affect another individual, how truth can be distorted when gossip takes over and how it can easily turn to violence, especially if it's not clarified. I also realize how family instability can force kids to grow up and pick up weird and harmful habits, especially when there's no guidance or care from a parent.
The story is short, sweet, and direct, it doesn't hide the strong themes it is trying to put out under the banner of literal showiness, most of the themes and actions came rather plain and direct, making it easier for student understanding. Although it is predictable, it is also relatable, especially for a kid who grew up in Nigeria, the setting feels authentic; the Assemblies, School gossip, Inter-House sports makes the story more relatable to me.
It is not the most amazing book you'll ever read, but it has its own empathetic feel to it. It speaks on strong themes that would be relatable to both teenagers, adults, and teachers.
All images are mine
*Thanks for reading *😊