A review by ryner
The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi

emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

Osita's cousin Vivek has always been a little...different. He's a little more sensitive, a little more in his own world, and unusual in some other ways at odds with traditional Nigerian culture.

I'm not sure how I feel about this book. The storytelling is really quite wonderful, and I know I was engaged while in the narrative, but just a few days afterward I had nearly completely forgotten the details. I guess it didn't really stick with me? I'd still recommend it, though. There is a lot of insight into contemporary Nigerian culture and its complexities. Be forewarned that there is no happy ending.