Finally,

I finally went ahead and did it. For sometime now, I have been a bit reluctant in reading Chimamanda’s novel “Half of a Yellow Sun”. I usually steer clear of African books that focus too much on conflict and tragedy. Personally, I believe we need more positive books and role model characters that can make the transition from books to films. I also believe we need to submit more challenging stories as possible winners of the Pulitzer, Caine and other international awards out there for burgeoning and established writers.

I’m still waiting to see “No Longer at Ease and A Man of the People” on the big screens. My leading man for both books would be Ramsey Nouah. Yeah! he’s a gorgeous hunk, but from what I have seen over the years while following his career as an actor, he has finally come of age and matured into fine wine. That’s the best analogy I can make. Watch ‘The Figurine” and you’d catch my drift. What were my conclusions after reading this book?

I actually haven’t finished but i’m almost through. I’m currently at the chapter denoted “The Sixties”. I found it a bit disturbing and hauntingly sad. War or conflict always leaves a scar that never heals. It is often said that “time heals all wounds”. However, there are some wounds that time cannot heal. Experience has taught me that. I also found some aspects of the book hilarious. Ugwu was such an entertaining character and likewise Miss Adebayo. I realise that this is a touchy subject in the history of this country and I like the way and manner Chimamanda has cataloged the tragedies of war. I also realized that we are yet to learn our lessons. The aftermath of war did not just start now, it has been a thorny issue since post independence and we are yet to deal with this issue once and for all. This is why we still have recurring hostilities within our various communities.

Kainene and Olanna, two sisters (twin) torn apart by their own selfish acts and parental neglect. We see this often and it’s good to know that books such as this are talking about sibling rivalry. It exists no matter how much we try to deny or avoid talking about the issue. I found Olanna a bit selfish and self absorbed due to unwarranted and warranted attention to physical beauty. Behind that beauty also lay a lot if insecurities which was evident in her relationship with Odenigbo and her refusal to tie the nuptial knot, which she eventually did. I also thought it amusing when she tries to create an image of humility when it’s so obvious that she’s so uppity. Kainene who had been described as the ugly duckling seemed to be more sensible even though she’s a bit withdrawn and rarely gets emotional. It happens if you’ve constantly been overlooked and denied of some things based on your physical features.

Overall, it’s an enjoyable read. I just might buy my own copy.

How do I save more money in 2009?

Of late, I have been thinking of ways to save more money especially with the global financial meltdown which is affecting almost every country. I usually have a savings goal every year and 2009 is no different. However, I have major spendings before me such as tuition and summer school fees; purchasing a car and other expenses that were not looming before me in 2008. To get around this, I have decided that the car will have to wait for now while I settle more pressing financial matters. Secondly, I’m cutting down on my monthly expense for food which is about NGN20,000 monthly. I really do not eat that much but sometimes, I might see the odd Sottish Shortbread biscuits and decide to buy on a daily basis which knocks off NGN2,000 meant for other expenses.

One other area I need to prune down on is books. There’s this charming bookstore in Ibadan called ‘Booksellers’ where they play all kinds of solemn and springy jazz tunes…once i’m in there and the music gets to me, I’m on a shopping spree. You can usually find me there fantasizing about myself half lying on a huge tree chaise swing, in my gypsy skirt and blouse, sipping apple juice and reading my favourite book which could be a brilliant thriller by John Grisham or Agatha Christie. Oh! did I leave out the music? Yes, there’s usually soft mellow music belting out in the background. Which brings me to the issue of property. When is the appropriate time to start investing in property – I mean buying or building your own house? I fantasize about it daily and it brings up a lot of questions on my mind such as:
* how come most houses are painted in the same bland cream and beige colours?
* how come throw pillows or materials used aren’t bright and chirpy even when it comes to design.
*how come we don’t have affordable soft furnishings for home such as IKEA within Nigeria.
* how come most homes are so stuffy and filled with things people do not need?
I could go on and ask more questions but some answers are inborn. So, back to my earlier question, how are you going to save more money in 2009?