Publishers Weekly
03/04/2024
With this singular debut collection, Nigerian author Kuku digs into the trials and tribulations of dating and married life for women in Lagos. The frank “Cuck-up,” narrated in the second person, begins, “One night, you will calmly put a knife to your husband’s penis and promise to cut it off.” The narrator then attempts to convince her husband’s family to intervene and push him to work rather than mooch off her. When that doesn’t succeed, the couple’s financial woes build to an unsettling denouement—less Lorena Bobbitt than Indecent Proposal. In “The Annointed Wife,” the wife of a pastor accused of hiring a sex worker stands behind her husband, indignant at what she believes are unfounded rumors. Her feelings change after she learns more about his secret life. The dual narrative of “Catfish” follows an up-and-coming musician named Don Okoro who slides into the DMs of a woman named Dooshima. Sensing he’d prefer casual sex to a serious relationship, she ends up turning down his booty call, though he still manages to hurt her feelings. Kuku finds both hideousness and humor in her precise details and candid, voice-driven characterizations. Readers who have had their own share of bad romances will appreciate the realness on display. Agent: Charlotte Seymour, Johnson & Alcock. (Mar.)
From the Publisher
‘Witty and utterly enjoyable! At the heart of every story is a juicy scandal waiting to unfold. This is definitely the best of Lagos situationships in three hundred pages.” — Sally Kenneth Dadzie, author of Stranger In Lagos
“Ridiculously entertaining . . . Kuku does not resort to clichés or caricatures of men and women one-upping each other, instead she imparts gracious moments of femininity, reasonableness, compassion, confidence, and empowerment.” — Booklist (starred review)
“Kuku's unflinching insight and irresistible charm promises profundity—and (mad) laughter.” — Shelf Awareness (starred review)
“A bewitching and revelatory portrait of Lagos.” — The New York Times
“Raucous and vibrant.” — Library Journal
“Kuku’s provocative debut is a brilliant, witty, punchy account of the messiness of relationships.” — Refinery 29
“If you’re going through a break-up and need a pick-me-up, this is the one for you.” — Huffington Post
“With this singular debut collection, Nigerian author Kuku digs into the trials and tribulations of dating and married life for women in Lagos. . . . Kuku finds both hideousness and humor in her precise details and candid, voice-driven characterizations. Readers who have had their own share of bad romances will appreciate the realness on display.” — Publishers Weekly
“If you are over Valentine’s Day, Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad is for you.” — The Root
Library Journal
02/01/2024
DEBUT In this debut collection of twelve stories, Nigerian writer Kuku vividly portrays the war between the genders. There's the wife who feels that her husband encouraged her to have an affair with a rich and influential entrepreneur in order to improve the economic wellbeing of their family. In "Ode-Pus Complex," independent-minded Yejide must contend with the demands and tribal loyalties of her boyfriend's mother. Another story describes the attempts of a pastor's wife to stand by her husband, despite mounting evidence of his flagrant infidelities. In "International Relations," after a series of disastrous experiences with Nigerian men, a successful careerwoman decides only to date white men but soon runs into problems. The women in Kuku's stories range from tough and lustful to sweet and fed up. The city of Lagos itself is an important character, defined by its neighborhoods, markets, bridges, and streets. Kuku's raucous and vibrant style emphasizes her storytelling skills (she also stars in, directs, and produces films). VERDICT A huge hit in Nigeria, Kuku's story collection explores women's lives, sexuality, and resilience in the face of adversity.—Jacqueline Snider
MAY 2024 - AudioFile
Anniwaa Buachie and Thabang Makhubela combine forces in this hilarious short story collection filled with contemporary Nigerian women who are grappling with a range of challenges. From wives who regret their marital choices to those who band together against scheming husbands, this is a treat of a listening experience. Buachie's delivery is laced with a lyrical rhythm that infuses each character with a unique cadence and personality. Makhubela harnesses the melodic lilt of the Nigerian storytelling tradition to invoke the bustling streets of Lagos, the serene beauty of the Niger Delta, and the mystical folkloric tradition of that region.Their performances entertain, offering listeners a window onto the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of womanhood in contemporary Nigeria. M.R. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine
