With the start of spring, April brings the hope of warmer weather. What better time to get out and about to see what’s happening in a library near you.
So, what’s on in libraries this month? Well we have storytellers, sign language, lectures, board games, treasure hunts, collages and much more.
Now onto books…
This month’s book recommendations have been selected by Book Award shortlisted, children’s fantasy author Maria Motúnráyọ̀ Adébísí. Maria has chosen Orisa-based fantasy and novels rooted in Nigerian mythology, as well as a few that have inspired her own writing.
Over to you Maria!
Top adult fiction
Forest of a Thousand Daemons : A Hunter’s Saga by D.O. Fagunwa ; Translation by Wole Soyinka ; Illustrated by Bruce Onabrakpeya
A timeless classic and the first Yoruba text translated into English, this novel is rich with Yoruba folklore and provides an unforgettable introduction to popular West African myths. It’s a magical tale that captures the spirit of Yoruba storytelling.
Reserve the paperback of Forest of a Thousand Daemons
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
This is a beautiful blend of myth, magic, and history that brings West African myths to life. It’s quite dense, but if you enjoy fantasy, you’ll be captivated by its world of witches, shape-shifters, and folklore figures like Mami Wata and Abiku.
Reserve the paperback of Black Leopard, Red Wolf
Love in Colour by Bolu Babalola
I think every woman should read this collection, especially for the first story on the goddess Osun and her resistance against Sango’s hypermasculine gaze. It’s a beautifully empowering reimagining of African mythology that celebrates love and strength.
Reserve the paperback of Love in Colour
Top adult non-fiction
City of 201 Gods : Ile-ife in Time, Space, and the Imagination by Jacob K. Olupona
This book is a deep dive into Ifa, the philosophical and spiritual tradition of the Yoruba people. It provided me with wonderful insight into Yoruba cosmology and cultural practices that extend far beyond Nigeria.
Reserve the paperback of City of 201 Gods
Top junior fiction
Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko
If you enjoy Children of Blood and Bone, you’ll love Raybearer! It’s a dark, immersive fantasy about power, loyalty, and betrayal. Recommended by a friend, I’m thoroughly enjoying this story of sinister councils and the unique bonds among its characters.
Reserve the paperback of Raybearer
Reserve the eBook of Raybearer
Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen
A captivating story of a Mami Wata who saves a boy from slavery, risking the wrath of the Orisa gods. If you’re a fan of The Half-God of Rainfall, you’ll be drawn to this beautifully told tale of resilience and supernatural intrigue.
Reserve the paperback of Skin of the Sea
Top audio books
Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
A life-changing read for me, this sci-fi classic follows Lauren Olamina, a young woman with an extraordinary ability to feel others’ pain. Set in a dystopian future, it’s a powerful exploration of empathy, survival, and transformation.
Reserve the audio book of Parable of the Sower
Reserve the comic book of Parable of the Sower
What book are you reading right now? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for more book recommendations?
Check out our ‘Get in our good books’ articles last month where librarians shared their top books for Women’s History Month.
