Described as a 'feminist classic in the making', Ogadinma is the story of a young woman's journey to independence, battling everything the patriarchal, 1980s Nigerian society throws her way. From the beginning, she dreams of going to university, but an unwanted pregnancy (CW: rape & domestic abuse) leaves her exiled and crushes her university plans.

.

It's a tough book to read content-wise, as it seems at times like every bad thing that could happen to Ogadinma, does. But I think Olisakwe balances the character well - she's not infallibly strong, carelessly brushing off every tragic incident, nor is she defined by those tragic things. She's described as a 'heroine you can't help but root for', and I would have to agree with that!

.

Although the content takes some stomaching, it's a joy to read in terms of style, which makes for a bit of a paradoxical reading experience. Sometimes I wanted to take a break from the horror, but Olisakwe's style is so smooth and readable that I couldn't help but carry on. Plus, there is some relief from the horror in the friendship between Ogadinma and Ejiro, I loved that. I also always enjoy it when an author can weave some historical context into a personal story - which Olisakwe does brilliantly here.

.

I will definitely read anything else Olisakwe publishes in the future, as I just love her writing! She does have another book already, I'm not sure how readily available it is but I'll be checking!