Hey readers, today I have brought to you the review of a very simple book; 89 pages, one story, and a beautiful Journey. If you are not much of an avid reader, do not worry, this book will draw you in and capture your attention.
“Last Days at Forcados High School.”
The very first hook that captivated me was the book’s title and cover design. I ,absolutely, love how detailed and engaging the book cover is. It gives fun, drama, and quintessential teenage-hood.
Firstly, A. Hanif Mohammed’s pen effortlessly crafts and delivers an engaging frictional story in “The Last Days of Forcados High School.” Subsequently, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) adopted it as its material for the 2015/2016 examinations.
Did the book meet the expectations set by the book cover? Oh yes. The book met every expectation and surpassed it. Aside from the incredible plot and character development of the book, the themes addressed were timely, relatable, and well-delivered.
The book is about teenagers; the rivalry between them, friendship, betrayals, love, and relationship. Also, it covers the violence of divided homes — the impact on kids, societal challenges, and how they react to them, prepared and unprepared.
The book tells the story of Jimi Solade, the most popular boy at the elite Forcados High School. As he begins his final year in senior secondary school. The story weaves around Jimi, yet the author skillfully develops other intriguing characters in the novel.
Jimi’s friends- the sweet-hearted and devout Nene, Ansa, the art genius; and Efua, the beautiful and mysterious new girl in class who seems to have no time for boys. It also includes Jimi’s elder brother, Wole, who looms trouble around him.
Jimi, the central character is a bright student, athlete, all round perfect kid. The author takes us through his ordeals in his final year. His life has been a flawless narrative, until the unexpected twists alter his course. Now, he sees that life is not a bed of roses. From his senior brother’s crazy lifestyle, to his dad’s stifled relationship with his family, to his mum’s health problems. Life deals him a heavy blow.
I must not fail to commend the writer, A. Hanif Mohammed; a young writer who not only delivered a masterpiece but skillfully wove together humour. Also, he infused a touch of teenage love, injected that little ounce of tragedy, and seamlessly blended the infusion of African language.
Concluding, I can not tell you everything about the book, and like an adage says, it is better to hear from the horse’s mouth. So, just grab a copy and travel through the insightful world of “The Last Days At Forcados High School.”
To easily get a copy of the book, click here.
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