Book Review: KABU KABU BY NNEDI OKORAFOR

By Eniola Olatunji

"Kabu-Kabu" by Nnedi Okorafor is an intriguing collection of 21 short stories published in 2013. The stories cover a diverse range of themes, settings, and characters, all tied together by elements of the supernatural and fantastical. The title, "Kabu Kabu," which means an old taxi cab in pidgin, sets the tone for the imaginative and adventurous journey readers are about to embark on.

One standout story in the collection is "Kabu Kabu" itself. The narrative follows Ngozi on a surreal and fantastical cab ride. Throughout her journey, she encounters unusual vehicles, passengers, and experiences supernatural phenomena. The author masterfully blends nostalgia, cultural references, and suspense to keep readers engaged and intrigued. The surprising twist at the end, revealing Ngozi's time travel and return to her village, adds an extra layer of wonder to the story.

Another notable tale is "The Winds of Harmattan," which tells the tragic story of Asuquo, a woman with extraordinary abilities. Asuquo faces the struggles of love, abuse, and societal rejection as she grapples with the conflict between her true love and her arranged marriage. The narrative delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and the consequences of societal norms. The emotional character development and bittersweet ending leave a lasting impact on readers, turning Asuquo's story into a powerful piece of folklore.

"Windseekers" is a captivating and intense encounter between Arro-yo and Ruwan in the city of Ile-Ife. The story skillfully builds tension as Arro-yo tries to evade Ruwan's pursuit but eventually finds herself in a secluded natural setting with him. Their exchange of words and shared memories creates a complex dynamic, leading to a passionate encounter. However, the story takes a dark turn when Arro-yo is threatened by Ruwan, leading to a heartbreaking decision that leaves her grappling with grief and contemplating her future path.

One overarching theme in the collection is the supernatural realm, which appears in each story through characters or items with outwardly characteristics, such as vampires, masquerades, and Ojuju. Nnedi Okorafor skillfully weaves together fantastical elements with real-world issues and emotions, stretching the imagination of readers and transporting them to otherworldly settings.

"Kabu-Kabu" is a highly imaginative and fictional collection that explores a wide range of themes and emotions. Nnedi Okorafor's storytelling prowess shines through in each story, leaving readers captivated and contemplative. If you're a fan of supernatural tales that challenge your imagination and transport you to extraordinary realms, "Kabu-Kabu" is a must-read collection.