BOOK REVIEW: Swallow by Sefi Atta

The Novel explores the Nigeria and Lagos in particular, of the early ‘80’s touching familiar range of subjects like family, friendship, poverty, corruption and drug trafficking.

Sefi Atta brings everyday characters to life in a way in which the reader connects to them, reminding you of a sibling, friend, neighbour or even yourself. From the central character: Tolani to her flatmate, Rose or Sanwo, the boyfriend, the Writer delves sufficiently into the characters’ backgrounds to paint a surrounding environment and shed light on the choices made by each individual. Primarily about Tolani, ‘Swallow’, explores the journey through life, struggles over declining morality and belief in God, disdain for corrupt Bosses and attempts to survive the hardships of Lagos life by any means necessary.

Though, not half as good as her first Novel: Everything Good Will Come, Sefi Atta retains her style which sees ‘Swallow’ crescendo till the end to leave the reader with more questions than answers.