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Twisted in a Positive Way
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A girl with big dreams. A land with strict societal rules. A spirit that will never die. Young Adaugo has lived her life according to cultural expectations. Any semblance of building a life of her own was actively discouraged for young women like her. But, Adaugo is not like others who came before her; she is born of strong spirit and mind, she knows there’s something more for her in the universe, but finding that will take strength she never knew she had and a deep understanding of what it is to listen to the voice within and grasp all life has to offer, no matter the obstacles placed in front of her. Follow Adaugo as she navigates through life, loss and heartache in a world built to stifle her loving spirit. Will she be able to stave off the temptation to give in to societal expectations to live life as her authentic self? Or will she give in like those gone before her?
A girl with big dreams. A land with strict societal rules. A spirit that will never die. Young Adaugo has lived her life according to cultural expectations. Any semblance of building a life of her own was actively discouraged for young women like her. But, Adaugo is not like others who came before her; she is born of strong spirit and mind, she knows there’s something more for her in the universe, but finding that will take strength she never knew she had and a deep understanding of what it is to listen to the voice within and grasp all life has to offer, no matter the obstacles placed in front of her. Follow Adaugo as she navigates through life, loss and heartache in a world built to stifle her loving spirit. Will she be able to stave off the temptation to give in to societal expectations to live life as her authentic self? Or will she give in like those gone before her?
230 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2015
1 person is currently reading
408 people want to read
About the author
Chikamso C. Efobi
2 books61 followersChikamso Efobi (Chika for Short) is an entrepreneur, avid reader, writer and lover of nature. She is the author of two books: Twisted in a Positive Way, an inspiring coming of age novel and Boss Bible, both of which were published in the United Kingdom where she lives.
She is dedicated to encouraging and guiding people to step beyond their perceived limitations to embrace living an authentic life. It is her strong belief that everyone has something to teach you if you are willing to listen and learn and as such, she welcomes wholesome conversations with diverse groups of individuals on varying topics.
She is also a self-professed food aficionado, green tea drinker and writes motivational and personal development posts on her blog, Twisted in a Positive Way at http://www.twistedinapositiveway.com.
For previews of upcoming books by Chikamso Efobi and more information about the author, visit www.chikaefobi.com
She is dedicated to encouraging and guiding people to step beyond their perceived limitations to embrace living an authentic life. It is her strong belief that everyone has something to teach you if you are willing to listen and learn and as such, she welcomes wholesome conversations with diverse groups of individuals on varying topics.
She is also a self-professed food aficionado, green tea drinker and writes motivational and personal development posts on her blog, Twisted in a Positive Way at http://www.twistedinapositiveway.com.
For previews of upcoming books by Chikamso Efobi and more information about the author, visit www.chikaefobi.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 25, 2016
This was a wonderful and inspiring coming of age story. From a young age, the protagonist finds within herself a guiding voice that leads her to fight for what it is that she wants. For that which will lead to true happiness, despite the odds being stacked against her. It is the type of story that we can all take something away from.
I adore the central theme: if you want something bad enough, the universe will find a way to make it happen. This is a great message, especially for young girls who might be feeling, as Adaugo had, that their path to happiness meanders from that which is expected of them. Highly recommend.
I adore the central theme: if you want something bad enough, the universe will find a way to make it happen. This is a great message, especially for young girls who might be feeling, as Adaugo had, that their path to happiness meanders from that which is expected of them. Highly recommend.
July 30, 2016
A very sweet, uplifting story about a young Nigerian woman searching for her path in life. Adaugo is an academically gifted girl who does well in school but ends up finding herself shunted into a dead-end career after college and pressured to marry an appropriate--meaning rich and preferably light-skinned--man as soon as possible. However, she learns to listen to her inner voice and forge her own path.
The writing style is clear and simple, but with snippets of Nigerian dialect for flavor. The descriptions of Lagos and the characters' lifestyles are also done in a way that made it easy for someone (me!) who knows almost nothing about Nigeria to follow along and enjoy reading about the culture there. Overall, I found this an inspirational, heartfelt story about a young woman living in a culture most Americans are completely unfamiliar with, presented in a very approachable way. Readers looking for inspirational books featuring women of color, or who are interested in dipping a toe in African literature, will probably find a lot to enjoy in this book.
The writing style is clear and simple, but with snippets of Nigerian dialect for flavor. The descriptions of Lagos and the characters' lifestyles are also done in a way that made it easy for someone (me!) who knows almost nothing about Nigeria to follow along and enjoy reading about the culture there. Overall, I found this an inspirational, heartfelt story about a young woman living in a culture most Americans are completely unfamiliar with, presented in a very approachable way. Readers looking for inspirational books featuring women of color, or who are interested in dipping a toe in African literature, will probably find a lot to enjoy in this book.
August 28, 2016
From start to finish this book was expertly written and thoroughly enjoyable. A coming of age story that whether you're male or female you can relate to.
At times charming, at times whimsical, at times tragic, Adaugo's journey perfectly captures those perilous young adult years that we all must navigate.
Reading this book was a departure from what I normally read; and one I can say I'm glad I took! Chikamso Efobi has written here that rare gem we seldom see today; a literary novel worthy of real praise.
An easy 5 stars.
At times charming, at times whimsical, at times tragic, Adaugo's journey perfectly captures those perilous young adult years that we all must navigate.
Reading this book was a departure from what I normally read; and one I can say I'm glad I took! Chikamso Efobi has written here that rare gem we seldom see today; a literary novel worthy of real praise.
An easy 5 stars.
December 27, 2015
This stunning novel, set in Nigeria is a coming of age book about a young girl 9 years of age initially who wants to pass exams early so that she can go on to the next stage of her education. She experiences and feels a sense of the ‘divine’ within her and speaks to and hears that voice as ‘herself’. Descriptions of family life and religion are the background that introduces us to the culture of this part of the world. The family is a positive influence, and despite the death of her sister, Adaugo goes on, writing and illustrating books. We see her development through life’s challenges up to the age of 25. Unsatisfying relationships stand in the way of true happiness. We can all relate to her—her struggle to find peace and fulfillment is aided by the sense of the ‘divine’ destiny—she sees ‘signs' and we witness the spiritual growth of a young woman who in another time in this part of the world would have been spotted as a potential ‘Oracle’ or ‘Shaman’ of a tribe. Through her perseverance she distinguishes herself, always believing in her dreams of relying on her own sense of destiny through wisdom to enlightenment. If your dreams are being discouraged or disparaged in any way you should read this charming, well-plotted beautifully written book. (Review by Howard Lipman, pen name PanOrpheus, author of the ‘Delphic Oracle’, 'Songs and Stories’ and 'Mage and Source' series of Science Fiction/Fantasy, visionary/metaphysiacal Steampunk Alternate History books)
January 17, 2016
This story follows the life of a Nigerian girl, Andougu, from the age of nine until twenty five. She is a bright and inquisitive child who passes her exams early, goes to boarding school at the age of ten, onto University in Lagos and then gets a job in a bank. This is the accepted road to success in Nigeria. But Andougu feels unfulfilled and wants something more from life.
She is an inspirational character; determined and positive. She is perceptive and observant, seeing "signs" all around her. When she helps an elderly man who has fallen in the street she discovers he's not quite what he seems and this leads her to re examine the society around her. Whilst at university, her friend Wale gives her a book which causes her to question her whole future.
She has an inner voice called "Herself" which imparts advice but then disappears whenever she's conforming to other people's expectations. Andougu misses "Herself" and eventually understands the reason for her absence.
Her journey is one of hope and optimism and tells a story that everyone can relate to. If anyone is feeling discouraged or trapped in their present situation, I would recommend they read this book. The message is to follow your dreams and be true to yourself.
I loved this beautifully written book. For me it was a truly inspiring read and one which I highly recommend.
She is an inspirational character; determined and positive. She is perceptive and observant, seeing "signs" all around her. When she helps an elderly man who has fallen in the street she discovers he's not quite what he seems and this leads her to re examine the society around her. Whilst at university, her friend Wale gives her a book which causes her to question her whole future.
She has an inner voice called "Herself" which imparts advice but then disappears whenever she's conforming to other people's expectations. Andougu misses "Herself" and eventually understands the reason for her absence.
Her journey is one of hope and optimism and tells a story that everyone can relate to. If anyone is feeling discouraged or trapped in their present situation, I would recommend they read this book. The message is to follow your dreams and be true to yourself.
I loved this beautifully written book. For me it was a truly inspiring read and one which I highly recommend.
January 24, 2016
I fell head over heels for this book. Adaugo is our central character, and we follow her from the age of nine to mid-twenties as she grows up in Lagos, Nigeria and learns how to overcome obstacles to live her own life. Audogo is a Christian girl and the story can be seen as inspirational, but it is more descriptive of culturally ingrained roadblocks in the path of women across the whole community.
The prosperous, respected family in oil-rich Lagos leads a modern life, and school and college form a good-sized portion of the coming of age tale. But why educate a young woman when it will scare off prospective husbands? And having taken a seemingly respectable job in banking, is there anything a young woman can do when she is expected to entertain clients in a less than professional manner? The old double standard applies and it's good to see occasional glimpses into the mindset of a young man. Adaugo is determined to find her way again.
The author is from Lagos and has now gained qualifications in the IT industry in England, and I hope to see many more books from her.
The prosperous, respected family in oil-rich Lagos leads a modern life, and school and college form a good-sized portion of the coming of age tale. But why educate a young woman when it will scare off prospective husbands? And having taken a seemingly respectable job in banking, is there anything a young woman can do when she is expected to entertain clients in a less than professional manner? The old double standard applies and it's good to see occasional glimpses into the mindset of a young man. Adaugo is determined to find her way again.
The author is from Lagos and has now gained qualifications in the IT industry in England, and I hope to see many more books from her.
March 1, 2016
Having written about pervasive human trafficking in Nigeria, I truly enjoyed a book that portrays the life of a young girl who was nurtured, encouraged and educated, helping her to make progress in life. Much of her achievements are due to her sense of self, believing that there is something special in store for her, a positive attitude that serves her well. Throughout, we get some insight of the life of middle class people in Nigeria, their customs, religion, food and values. Audago is a bright, motivated young person who questions her environs and takes the necessary steps to fulfill her goals by making important decisions in life by listening to her own inner voice as opposed to just fulfilling others’ expectations. In the process, she also deals with the death of her sister, years in boarding school and the University, struggles at work and other challenges, but never loses the determination and sense of destiny that propel her life to fulfillment.
A remarkable first novel, thought provoking and a joy to read. Highly recommended.
A remarkable first novel, thought provoking and a joy to read. Highly recommended.
March 24, 2016
This is a fascinating tale about a girl from a culture so different from my own, yet surprisingly similar. Her life experiences reflect the same struggle many of us face, and I found myself easily able to relate to her. Watching her grow and blossom into the strong woman she becomes makes this story all the more fulfilling.
The most intriguing part of Adaugo is that she is willing to break apart from the destiny her society would see her fulfill. Instead, she chooses her own path in life, embarking on adventures of her own making. She manages this while still remaining true to life and never becoming cliche or predictable. She's a well-rounded character who loves and learns, and her outlook changes as she continues to evolve. This is a wonderful glimpse into the life of an extraordinary woman.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The most intriguing part of Adaugo is that she is willing to break apart from the destiny her society would see her fulfill. Instead, she chooses her own path in life, embarking on adventures of her own making. She manages this while still remaining true to life and never becoming cliche or predictable. She's a well-rounded character who loves and learns, and her outlook changes as she continues to evolve. This is a wonderful glimpse into the life of an extraordinary woman.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
January 24, 2016
I really enjoyed reading this book! There are so many little nuggets of life throughout the entire book. Lessons that can be learned across all cultures. I enjoyed the fact the author kept the cultural aspects of Lagos, Nigeria in the book, even down to the language spoken in the home. I also appreciated how the main character dealt with life, such as loss of a loved one, or betrayal of a friend, or learning to trust again after trust has been broken. I definitely recommend this book for any book club discussion. I, myself, had to take notes on lessons I wanted to be sure to remember! The biggest lesson is to "dare to dream" beyond the hurt and pain of loss.
January 14, 2016
At first, I didn't know if I'd enjoy this, because I usually read action packed, suspense or mystery genres. But, it didn't take long before I was captured in the life of Adaugo. It's a beautiful tale of a girl-woman who follows her desire, ambitions and dreams and by the end of the her story-let's just save the feel good moment for future readers.
January 18, 2016
Captivating, entertaining and inspiring read about the importance of being true to your own vision
Twisted in a positive way by Chikamso C. Efobi is a mesmerizing coming of age novel about a very special Nigerian girl. From early on she doesn’t just passively react to environment, but tries to understand all her experiences (obstacles, tragedies, going through relationships) in touch with something higher. With Adaugo the author created a richly developed and remarkable character. We witness her spiritual growth as if we were there and we can strongly relate to Adaugo's story. She is constantly on the way of self-discovery and self-realization, always learning, carefully observing, and absorbing the higher wisdom. Her decisions are mature from early on. Her story constantly reminded me of Herman Hesse's: »I didn't want anything else in life, but to be who I really am. Why was this so difficult?«
Through the story, we also get to know a little bit of the Nigerian culture, such as meals or patterns of interactions, and this is a bonus in itself.
Twisted in a positive way is a beautifully written and deeply inspiring novel. Everyone should read it, especially those who are discouraged in finding the right orientation in life. It is about the importance of listening to your own inner voice – and not only to expectations of others - while making important decisions in life. I highly recommend this book. Obviously, Chikamso Efobi wrote it from the heart. It is a jewel.
Twisted in a positive way by Chikamso C. Efobi is a mesmerizing coming of age novel about a very special Nigerian girl. From early on she doesn’t just passively react to environment, but tries to understand all her experiences (obstacles, tragedies, going through relationships) in touch with something higher. With Adaugo the author created a richly developed and remarkable character. We witness her spiritual growth as if we were there and we can strongly relate to Adaugo's story. She is constantly on the way of self-discovery and self-realization, always learning, carefully observing, and absorbing the higher wisdom. Her decisions are mature from early on. Her story constantly reminded me of Herman Hesse's: »I didn't want anything else in life, but to be who I really am. Why was this so difficult?«
Through the story, we also get to know a little bit of the Nigerian culture, such as meals or patterns of interactions, and this is a bonus in itself.
Twisted in a positive way is a beautifully written and deeply inspiring novel. Everyone should read it, especially those who are discouraged in finding the right orientation in life. It is about the importance of listening to your own inner voice – and not only to expectations of others - while making important decisions in life. I highly recommend this book. Obviously, Chikamso Efobi wrote it from the heart. It is a jewel.
December 24, 2015
Review by Joe Prentis
Great novel of another culture.
Twisted in a positive way is a coming of age novel about a Nigerian girl who struggles with the problems that are universal to everyone growing up in today’s world. Adougo knows from an early age that she wants to be everything she can be, despite the efforts of her schoolmates and her family who want her to conform to her culture. The story starts when she is nine years old. At school, she is subjected to the thoughtless jibes and lack of consideration by those around her. She has to struggle with choices and the fact that she is somewhat different from the others around her. Abdougo is a keen observer of life and has an inner strength that allows her to make some mature decisions as she goes from childhood to becoming an adult. After graduation with a Bachelor of Science degree, she begins her career in banking but decides that she wants more. Her choice of friends, her career goals, and her family do not make her decisions easy. She realizes that it is her life, and she owes it to herself to be and do what she decides is right for her rather than yielding to her family and friends selfish desires. This as an excellently written novel that introduces us to another culture through the author’s careful use of language and descriptive terms. I love this book, and I think you will like it too.
Great novel of another culture.
Twisted in a positive way is a coming of age novel about a Nigerian girl who struggles with the problems that are universal to everyone growing up in today’s world. Adougo knows from an early age that she wants to be everything she can be, despite the efforts of her schoolmates and her family who want her to conform to her culture. The story starts when she is nine years old. At school, she is subjected to the thoughtless jibes and lack of consideration by those around her. She has to struggle with choices and the fact that she is somewhat different from the others around her. Abdougo is a keen observer of life and has an inner strength that allows her to make some mature decisions as she goes from childhood to becoming an adult. After graduation with a Bachelor of Science degree, she begins her career in banking but decides that she wants more. Her choice of friends, her career goals, and her family do not make her decisions easy. She realizes that it is her life, and she owes it to herself to be and do what she decides is right for her rather than yielding to her family and friends selfish desires. This as an excellently written novel that introduces us to another culture through the author’s careful use of language and descriptive terms. I love this book, and I think you will like it too.
January 4, 2016
Twisted, in a Positive Way, by Chikamso Efobi, is the story of Adaugo, a bright Nigerian girl who, over the course of the book, learns to find her own path. Despite setbacks, personal loss, family quarrels, and the perils of young love, Adaugo learns to listen to her inner voice, “Herself,” who imparts priceless advice.
The reader meets Adaugo’s family, some of her friends and boyfriends, and learns about life for a young woman who faces pressure from her family to find a suitable husband, settle down, and have children. But when Adaugo settles for what others want, she finds she’s missing her “authentic self.”
This discontent takes her down a completely different path, with unexpected consequences.
In addition to telling an interesting story, Twisted in a Positive Way provides details of everyday life in Nigeria – foods, belongings, manners, and speech patterns, and reminds us that no matter what the setting, the search for love and friendship remains the same difficult quest.
This is a very interesting and unusual read. I recommend it.
The reader meets Adaugo’s family, some of her friends and boyfriends, and learns about life for a young woman who faces pressure from her family to find a suitable husband, settle down, and have children. But when Adaugo settles for what others want, she finds she’s missing her “authentic self.”
This discontent takes her down a completely different path, with unexpected consequences.
In addition to telling an interesting story, Twisted in a Positive Way provides details of everyday life in Nigeria – foods, belongings, manners, and speech patterns, and reminds us that no matter what the setting, the search for love and friendship remains the same difficult quest.
This is a very interesting and unusual read. I recommend it.
September 11, 2016
CONTEST WINNER!
I received this book via a Goodreads contest and first want to thank Ms. Efobi for the book.
I enjoyed reading this book. It had an autobiographical feel to it that made the situations more realistic. Ms. Efobi painted wonderful pictures with her words of the varying cultural experiences one might experience in Nigeria. Twisted in a Positive Way is an easy read with a great deal of life nuggets along the way. I believe I read this book at the right time in my life as I am currently thinking of what's next in my own life journey. I was reminded to listen to the Spirit as I'm guided and not to limit myself due to fear or uncertainty of the future.
Good first effort by Ms. Efobi and I look forward to seeing what's next for her. Twisted in a Positive Way
I received this book via a Goodreads contest and first want to thank Ms. Efobi for the book.
I enjoyed reading this book. It had an autobiographical feel to it that made the situations more realistic. Ms. Efobi painted wonderful pictures with her words of the varying cultural experiences one might experience in Nigeria. Twisted in a Positive Way is an easy read with a great deal of life nuggets along the way. I believe I read this book at the right time in my life as I am currently thinking of what's next in my own life journey. I was reminded to listen to the Spirit as I'm guided and not to limit myself due to fear or uncertainty of the future.
Good first effort by Ms. Efobi and I look forward to seeing what's next for her. Twisted in a Positive Way
December 8, 2015
A book touching on experiences and thoughts, as the main character lives her life from a young age, through school years to her current job at age twenty-five. Stumbling through relationships but never really satisfied. She searches desperately to find contentment, maybe even happiness as she moves through life.
Always being open to the ‘signs’ that came to her disguised in many fashions, giving her mind avenues to travel as the universe spoke. As the years passed, she finds herself delving into the search for that authentic self, lost in her attempt to be what has been expected of her thus far.
Wisdom abounds in the words coming from her ‘personal friend’ always giving her food for thought even pointing her in directions she may not have sought.
Keep your dreams alive always!!!
Always being open to the ‘signs’ that came to her disguised in many fashions, giving her mind avenues to travel as the universe spoke. As the years passed, she finds herself delving into the search for that authentic self, lost in her attempt to be what has been expected of her thus far.
Wisdom abounds in the words coming from her ‘personal friend’ always giving her food for thought even pointing her in directions she may not have sought.
Keep your dreams alive always!!!
January 6, 2016
Adaugo is a complex yet lovable character. When she was younger she endured the pain of a family member's death. Ever since then, she was growing stronger as she strode towards achieving her goals in education and in life. Through her life she has a high appreciation towards the divine side to nature, being in touch with something higher than herself. Her thirst for a divine destiny and an adherence to a higher calling led her strongly in her life. Adaugo has the heart of a seer. She looked around her to see the inappropriate aspects of the society and surrounding which she was in, and wanted things to change. The characters in the story are very lovable, and I felt a beautiful vibe in the story and plot. The story is deep and interesting, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
March 24, 2016
You can read my full review on my independent book review blog Nevermind the Furthermore.
Twisted in a Positive Way is a charming novel by UK author Chikamso Efobi. I love a good coming-of-age story and this one doesn't disappoint. The story follows Adaugo, a young Nigerian girl on the brink of big life changes. She comes from a large and happy family who encourage her to strive for success.
Chikamso Efobi has painted a stunning picture of Nigerian culture. I loved that this book took me into a world that's completely unfamiliar to me. By her use of dialogue, the reader is immersed in the language and culture of Nigeria. I could hear the voices and inflections of the characters in my head.
Twisted in a Positive Way is a charming novel by UK author Chikamso Efobi. I love a good coming-of-age story and this one doesn't disappoint. The story follows Adaugo, a young Nigerian girl on the brink of big life changes. She comes from a large and happy family who encourage her to strive for success.
Chikamso Efobi has painted a stunning picture of Nigerian culture. I loved that this book took me into a world that's completely unfamiliar to me. By her use of dialogue, the reader is immersed in the language and culture of Nigeria. I could hear the voices and inflections of the characters in my head.
December 9, 2015
A book touching on experiences and thoughts, as the main character lives her life from a young age, through school years to her current job at age twenty-five. Stumbling through relationships but never really satisfied. She searches desperately to find contentment, maybe even happiness as she moves through life.
Always being open to the ‘signs’ that came to her disguised in many fashions, giving her mind avenues to travel as the universe spoke. As the years passed, she finds herself delving into the search for that authentic self, lost in her attempt to be what has been expected of her thus far. Wisdom abounds in the words coming from her ‘personal friend’ always giving her food for thought even pointing her in directions she may not have sought.
An enjoyable read!!
Always being open to the ‘signs’ that came to her disguised in many fashions, giving her mind avenues to travel as the universe spoke. As the years passed, she finds herself delving into the search for that authentic self, lost in her attempt to be what has been expected of her thus far. Wisdom abounds in the words coming from her ‘personal friend’ always giving her food for thought even pointing her in directions she may not have sought.
An enjoyable read!!
August 29, 2016
I was provided with a free copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
This was a really good book that kept getting pushed to the bottom of my work bag. I got really into it last night and read past my bedtime finishing it.
The story reminded me of The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, even without the quotes and references. The chapters were short but full of description and life. It was a book one could relate to and made you think.
I enjoyed the premise of the book. The story line was on point, as was the character development. I found one typo, but what book doesn't have typos somewhere.
I recommend this book to everyone. It's a good, quick read (assuming a work bag doesn't hide it) that makes you think.
This was a really good book that kept getting pushed to the bottom of my work bag. I got really into it last night and read past my bedtime finishing it.
The story reminded me of The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, even without the quotes and references. The chapters were short but full of description and life. It was a book one could relate to and made you think.
I enjoyed the premise of the book. The story line was on point, as was the character development. I found one typo, but what book doesn't have typos somewhere.
I recommend this book to everyone. It's a good, quick read (assuming a work bag doesn't hide it) that makes you think.
January 15, 2016
Beautifully written and elegantly presented. I really enjoyed this coming of age novel. Now I wouldn't normally say that. I don't really get into coming of age stories as many times I struggle to relate to the character and despite that problem again I struggled to put it down. Being able to see things from a very different way of life and culture and still find things to relate to was no small task for the writer but she masters it. It was a slow paced book with time as you read to really attach to the character and live through her progress. I would recommend for those who enjoy inspirational books and coming of age stories.
December 23, 2015
Twisted in a positive way is a fantastic novel about the life of a young woman up through adulthood and many experiences that she undergoes. She has to overcome incredible odds to become the woman she is today. We see the world she grew up in where many are suffering and many are struggling to overcome. Our heroine feels ashamed when ruffians mistreat an old man, showing that she is not okay with the way people act.
it was easy to sympathize with the main character, and I really enjoyed reading this story. There is also a smattering of the local language in the book, breathing life into it. Very enjoyable read!
it was easy to sympathize with the main character, and I really enjoyed reading this story. There is also a smattering of the local language in the book, breathing life into it. Very enjoyable read!
December 30, 2015
I didn't think I would like this book but not only did I like it I loved it! When Adougo is just nine years old she realizes so many things that I couldn't have even thought of at that age.
She's a remarkable character that was developed well and we get to see her grow up and experience a life that we've all had a part in. There have been many crossroads in my life that had I listened to my inner voice like Adougo does would have been so much better.
This book has so many positive twists that I can't help but feel for Adougo.
I look forward to reading more from Chikamso and hope there is more to Adougo's story.
She's a remarkable character that was developed well and we get to see her grow up and experience a life that we've all had a part in. There have been many crossroads in my life that had I listened to my inner voice like Adougo does would have been so much better.
This book has so many positive twists that I can't help but feel for Adougo.
I look forward to reading more from Chikamso and hope there is more to Adougo's story.
July 3, 2016
Follow your dreams and listen to your heart. Don't worry about what others think, or what you're "supposed" to do with your life. Only you know what's right for you. These are the pearls of wisdom you'll glean from Twisted in a Positive Way. In addition to the plethora of uplifting quotes and encouraging thoughts, I loved the sprinkling of African culture that is a major theme throughout this book. I felt I could hear the accents in each word of dialogue, and I loved the way the author added local dialect to the conversations. A beautiful, heartfelt, courageous novel.
January 6, 2016
A heart-warming and inspiring book! It is the coming-of-age story of a Nigerian girl with big dreams. She has to face all kind of obstacles and tragedies as she grows up. However, she never gives up pursuing her goals and always looks at the brighter sides of life. The book is an easy read. You also get to learn a bit about Nigerian people and culture which is a bonus. I enjoyed reading 'Twisted in a Positive Way' and if there's a book I want my own school-age kids to read, this is it.
January 6, 2016
A great story about the importance of being true to yourself and following your dreams no matter what. Adaugo listens to the voice in her head, the one that tells her to be who she is meant to be and not what everyone else expects. One of my favorite lines was "When you want something, all of the universe conspires in helping you achieve it". Wonderful story and a great read!
December 27, 2015
This is a beautifully written coming of age book, and I happen to have very mixed feelings about it. On one hand I loved it and on the other I feel slightly annoyed. The main character had very positive outlook on life, but at times I found the writing to be confusing.
The story follows a young girl through life and school as she grows up to be a kind young women. The people she meets and the places she goes all teach her little things that in return have a big impact on her life. Reading this story during a stressful time helped me look for the meaning in my own life. Due to this I was able to see the positive side of things.
The bits that bother me are fairly small. There are grammatical errors and some words were used quite frequently when she described things. I also noticed that somethings were unnecessarily repeated. For example there was a time that a plant broke out of its pot and she described it as it 'broken through its immediate environment'and one sentence later she once again describes it as 'breaking through its immediate environment'. Had this example been the only occurrence I would not have noted it, however this was not the case. Lastly there are times that the characters speak a different language and I wish that a translation had been included. If she didn't want to include it within the story than listing the words used at the beginning or end of the book would have been nice. Nonetheless, ignoring these things and you have yourself a great story.
The story follows a young girl through life and school as she grows up to be a kind young women. The people she meets and the places she goes all teach her little things that in return have a big impact on her life. Reading this story during a stressful time helped me look for the meaning in my own life. Due to this I was able to see the positive side of things.
The bits that bother me are fairly small. There are grammatical errors and some words were used quite frequently when she described things. I also noticed that somethings were unnecessarily repeated. For example there was a time that a plant broke out of its pot and she described it as it 'broken through its immediate environment'and one sentence later she once again describes it as 'breaking through its immediate environment'. Had this example been the only occurrence I would not have noted it, however this was not the case. Lastly there are times that the characters speak a different language and I wish that a translation had been included. If she didn't want to include it within the story than listing the words used at the beginning or end of the book would have been nice. Nonetheless, ignoring these things and you have yourself a great story.
April 7, 2016
Very much a first book, but this account of a girl’s life from 9 to 27 has a certain charm. It gives the reader an introduction to middle class life in Lagos today, and is written is in that direct and energetic manner so symptomatic of Nigeria. This helps to give some insight into the society where the story is played out.
We follow the heroine through a family tragedy, her years at boarding school and her struggles at work, and again we get some inkling of what is going through her mind, but we don’t really get to grips with her. There is an inner voice that muses about life, which flows through the book, but somehow it skims the surface and doesn’t portray the person. We also don’t get to see what her ‘goal’ is either – apart from wanting something more than she has at the moment. Why is she dissatisfied with her lot, and exactly why does she think the society she lives in should be changed?
We also never get to understand what long-term influence her sister’s death had on her – why her parents sent her away to school – or what sort of relationship her parents had with each other, apart from the superficialities – or even what was her relationship with her parents (she was 27 and still in the thrall of her father?? – why?). The reader needs to understand these things.
However the story is intriguing, and is written with such ingenuous charm that one warms to the author, who seems to be writing with a cathartic energy about her life – and this is what makes the book enjoyable.
We follow the heroine through a family tragedy, her years at boarding school and her struggles at work, and again we get some inkling of what is going through her mind, but we don’t really get to grips with her. There is an inner voice that muses about life, which flows through the book, but somehow it skims the surface and doesn’t portray the person. We also don’t get to see what her ‘goal’ is either – apart from wanting something more than she has at the moment. Why is she dissatisfied with her lot, and exactly why does she think the society she lives in should be changed?
We also never get to understand what long-term influence her sister’s death had on her – why her parents sent her away to school – or what sort of relationship her parents had with each other, apart from the superficialities – or even what was her relationship with her parents (she was 27 and still in the thrall of her father?? – why?). The reader needs to understand these things.
However the story is intriguing, and is written with such ingenuous charm that one warms to the author, who seems to be writing with a cathartic energy about her life – and this is what makes the book enjoyable.
November 3, 2021
First, let me commend the author for taking the bold step of writing and publishing her debut novel. It was a lovely attempt, though a little more could have been done in terms of plotting and linking elements of the story from chapter to chapter so that some significant events in the early days of the main character play a role in her later days.
The beginning of the book was nice, although a bit sad as the main character, Adaugo lost a family member. It was actually touching, and I thought that the essence of that part was that it was going to affect Adaugo or shape her life, however, there was not much mention of the death anymore once Adaugo went to high school.
I was eager to know more about the high school because two of my sisters went to Abuloma, but there's not too much about the school after Adaugo enters and goes to her room. From then on, everything is rushed until the end of the book. Adaugo is growing, but you are not growing with her because before you even try to understand how she’s coping in a new environment, we are transported several years later.
Read more on my blog: http://cmokonkwosblog.blogspot.com/20...
***
CMO
The beginning of the book was nice, although a bit sad as the main character, Adaugo lost a family member. It was actually touching, and I thought that the essence of that part was that it was going to affect Adaugo or shape her life, however, there was not much mention of the death anymore once Adaugo went to high school.
I was eager to know more about the high school because two of my sisters went to Abuloma, but there's not too much about the school after Adaugo enters and goes to her room. From then on, everything is rushed until the end of the book. Adaugo is growing, but you are not growing with her because before you even try to understand how she’s coping in a new environment, we are transported several years later.
Read more on my blog: http://cmokonkwosblog.blogspot.com/20...
***
CMO
February 5, 2016
First I must say this is not my usual storyline, most books have a paranormal/urban fantasy storyline. With that being said, this coming of age story was very educational for me on the traditions of Nigeria. Also, as a Christian woman, I found it to be very inspirational. Many reminders of what I was taught as well as validating what I already believed as a Christian woman. I found myself agreeing to her thought process over and over, and applauding her for tenacity! At the beginning I had a difficult time getting into the first five or six chapters, but after that, it was full steam ahead! I found myself cheering for her and her family. Loving how their culture really stays family oriented, but that she found her independence without offending them. I enjoyed learning their ways, and hearing about different foods and how schools were perceived there. It was completely fascinating for me, I truly savored the journey I took with Adaugo, and can't wait for more by this author!
January 6, 2016
A great story about the importance of being true to yourself and following your dreams no matter what. Adaugo listens to the voice in her head, the one that tells her to be who she is meant to be and not what everyone else expects. One of my favorite lines was "When you want something, all of the universe conspires in helping you achieve it". Wonderful story and a great read!
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