Orimili

Shortlisted for the 1992 Commonwealth Best First Book Award. Orimili is the profound story of a father looking to deepen his cultural roots and find identity within his community. But gaining the town elders' respect proves more difficult than he ever imagined.

Despite the respect and wealth Orimili has accumulated over the years, there remains one last barrier to his recognition within the town of Okocha - the title of Ozo. The most important symbol of nobility and honour, Orimili is desperate to finally have the title and ensure his status as an integral part of the community.

Writing with remarkable poise, Amechi Akwanya charts Orimili's difficult journey to citizenship, offering a compelling insight into the customs of mid-twentieth century Nigeria and the universal desire for acceptance.