Join rising star in literary fiction, Chukwuebuka Ibeh, in conversation with author and lecturer Okechukwu Nzelu to mark the publication of his debut novel, Blessings.

When Obiefuna's father witnesses an intimate moment between his teenage son and the family's apprentice, newly arrived from the nearby village, he banishes Obiefuna to a Christian boarding school marked by strict hierarchy and routine, devastating violence. Utterly alienated from the people he loves, Obiefuna begins a journey of self-discovery and blossoming desire, while his mother Uzoamaka grapples to hold onto her favourite son, her truest friend.

Blessings is an elegant and exquisitely moving story of love and loneliness. For this special virtual event, Okechukwu and Chukwuebuka will discuss how we can live freely when politics reaches into our hearts, lives and spreads deep into our consciousness. Don’t miss the chance to join these incredible writers in conversation about this stunning and searing debut.

“Chukwuebuka Ibeh’s writing has a certain delicacy to it, so wonderfully observant, and so beautiful.” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“Blessings is as raw and heart-wrenching as it is beautiful and delicate. A masterfully executed story about love, faith and sexuality that clenches your heart and doesn’t let go until the very last page. Ibeh is a once in a lifetime talent!” Elvin James Mensah