Book Review:
The Nigerian Mafia: Mumbai by Onyeka Nwelue
The Nigerian Mafia: Mumbai is an extraordinary tale amidst the world of crime in the city of Mumbai. The intertwined struggle between fulfilling dreams of the past and fighting for survival, getting caught in violence, drugs, human trafficking, murder and sex is penned in a very captivating light. The power of diversity is the theme highlighting the plight of Nigerians who are in Mumbai.
This book takes its readers on an unexpected journey from Surulere neighbourhood in Lagos, to Bandra in Mumbai. The story of Uche Mbadiegwu, appearance of Periwinkle in his life creating uncertainties and conflicts left me second guessing after each event. The perfect timing to introduce each new character into the story, their relationship with Uche and keeping them connected throughout makes the book incredibly gripping.
The Nigerian Mafia: Mumbai is an extraordinary tale amidst the world of crime in the city of Mumbai. The intertwined struggle between fulfilling dreams of the past and fighting for survival, getting caught in violence, drugs, human trafficking, murder and sex is penned in a very captivating light. The power of diversity is the theme highlighting the plight of Nigerians who are in Mumbai.
The author has used his skillful storytelling, narratives and experiences to shed light on stereotyping which the world does not know about, illustrating the diversity within the immigrants and their hopes for a better future.
This book takes its readers on an unexpected journey from Surulere neighbourhood in Lagos, to Bandra in Mumbai. The story of Uche Mbadiegwu, appearance of Periwinkle in his life creating uncertainties and conflicts left me second guessing after each event. The perfect timing to introduce each new character into the story, their relationship with Uche and keeping them connected throughout makes the book incredibly gripping.
The protagonist delves into his internal conflicts quite often which makes it difficult for him to decide between ethical and unethical. Irrespective of the choices made by him the storyline offers a stimulating and insightful read making the readers empathise with Uche. This take is quite unusual in this genre of writing but the humanity surfaces at each phase.
The others apart from the main character hold a true significance while representing their own stories and conflicts which gives the reader a chance to indulge in different perspectives in the same time line.
" Things happen when they happen, and only a fool would ignore the sign."
" I would rather be killed than allow another to take bread from my mouth a second time."
A couple of my favourite lines from the book portraying the spirit of main character that he never gave up and also he was a rebellion is both inspiring and thought-provoking at the same time.
Few references in Pidgin English makes the reading quite unique in its own way. Besides the experience the writing style of the author is gripping, interesting and well- researched. Amidst the world of crime and chaos, Uche's budding love story doesn't go unnoticed.
It is definitely a great book to read that grips its readers till the last page. I woud highly recommend The Nigerian Mafia Mumbai especially if your genre is crime thriller or if you would like to indulge in an adventure from the comforts of your couch. As for me, this story is going to stay with me for very long time.
Thanks for reading
Ayushi Agrawal
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