Soma Nami’s Books in Review
By Wendy Njoroge
Wendy Njoroge reviews fantasy novel Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi
Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi is a riveting fantasy novel that cleverly weaves together African mythology, modern-day heist thriller elements, and a compelling love story. The protagonist, Shigidi, starts off as an unremarkable and unmotivated god within the Orisha spirit company—a divine organization that operates much like a corporation, complete with bureaucracy and a capitalist structure. Initially, Shigidi seems resigned to his unglamorous role, lacking the ambition or drive to do anything significant in the spirit world.
However, everything changes when Shigidi meets Neoma, a stunningly beautiful, rebellious demon. Their love story forms the emotional core of the novel, sparking a profound change in Shigidi. His devotion to Neoma ignites a fire within him, plunging him into a life filled with danger, adventure, and the challenges of her colourful past. Their relationship introduces a fascinating “Bonnie and Clyde” dynamic as they navigate the complexities of their respective roles in the spirit world, all while being drawn deeper into a thrilling mission.
At the heart of the story is a daring heist—one that feels both audacious and deeply symbolic. Shigidi and Neoma embark on a high-stakes mission to rescue the looted Brass Head of Obalufon from the British Museum, a nod to real-world historical artifacts that have been stolen from African cultures. This plotline not only serves as a vehicle for action and suspense but also touches on the themes of cultural restitution and the lingering effects of colonialism.
Author Wole Talabi. Photo credit: Ola-Tokunbo Aworinde
One of the most striking aspects of Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon is its portrayal of Yoruba deities as part of a modern corporate structure. The depiction of gods navigating the complexities of office politics, hierarchies, and performance reviews brings a refreshingly unique perspective to the story. It adds layers of humor, satire, and relatability to the narrative, making it more than just an ordinary fantasy novel.
While the story takes some time to gain momentum, once it does, the pace is electric. The combination of rich world-building, memorable characters, and the seamless blending of myth and modernity makes this book an absolute page-turner. Talabi’s writing is fresh, and it’s no surprise that the novel has garnered recognition, winning the Nommo Award and being nominated for both the World Fantasy Award and the British Fantasy Award. A sequel would be eagerly anticipated, as Shigidi and Neoma’s adventures in the spirit realm are far from over.
You can find Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi and many more titles at Nairobi’s Pan-African bookshop Soma Nami, located in Greenhouse Mall, Ngara & online at www.somanami.co.ke