Book Picks from Our Librarians: February 17, 2014

Check out this week's selection of great fiction, non-fiction and children's books chosen by our librarians! You can find all of these awesome titles and more at our Community Library at 196 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Looking for your next great read? Search our catalogue or browse previous picks for inspiration.
Fiction: A Train Ride to Zaria by Bankole Osobanwo A Train Ride to Zaria is a journey that begins with the birth of Faseke Olukolu, a Yoruba merchant, who was born during the period of the decline of the Old Oyo Empire. Migrating from his native Oyo to Lagos, he succeeds in becoming a wealthy and powerful trader. Joining in the political struggle, he is eventually appointed the first African member of the Legislative Council of Southern Nigeria, thus leading the way for Herbert Macaulay to form Nigeria's first political party. Charting a passage through three generations of Olukolu’s family, A Train Ride to Zaria is an insight into African politics and a compelling account of money and power, lust and adultery, anger and revenge, love and passion, death and sorrow. Non-Fiction: Head Above Waterby Buchi Emecheta
"As for my survival for the past twenty years in England, from when I was a little over twenty, dragging four cold and dripping babies with me and pregnant with the fifth one - that is a miracle. And if for any reason you do not believe in miracles, please start believing, because keeping my head above water in this indifferent society...is a miracle."
This book is a sharply-observed account of how Nigerian author Buchi Emecheta struggled to establish herself as a writer. Every page of this autobiography reveals her extraordinary talent, determination and wry humour.
Learn more about the life of this remarkable Nigerian and others in our Discover Nigeria section.
Children and Young Adults: Saint Valentine by Robert Sabuda How did Valentine’s Day, one of our most popular holidays, begin? It started in ancient Rome when a kind physician named Valentine took an interest in a young blind girl. With his healing skill and his deep faith he restored her sight. What we now called Valentine’s Day began when he sent the little girl a secret message, which she received after the Christian martyr was executed. What are you reading this week? Share with us in the comments or by tweeting @ZODML!