Book Review: Nigeria Jones

Nigeria Jones
by Ibi Zoboi
Review by Alex P

Nigeria Jones lives a sheltered life. Brought up in ‘the Movement’, a black separatist group led by her father, she is fueled by the ideology that has surrounded her since birth. From her home-schooling to her strict vegan diet, friends and hobbies, everything has been meticulously curated for her to be the shining example of The Movement’s philosophies made manifest. However, Nigeria is learning that what she wants, and her father wants may differ, as she learns about her mother’s hopes and dreams for her future.

It was interesting to read about the lived experience of Nigeria, as it isn’t one I can relate to being a white person in Aotearoa. I can understand the desires of the Movement to decolonise, carve out space for themselves in racist America and dismantle white supremacy. These are practices that are happening here in Aotearoa as we work to make our society more inclusive and equitable to all. However, it was also very clear from an outsider that in the pursuit of these goals, the Movement strips away the individual wants and desires of its members to pursue their ideals, often to the detriment of the individual participants. The strict rules and authoritarian nature of their leader make The Movement almost cult like, instead of a group dedicated to social change and the good of their people. Nigeria is home-schooled and taught only what her father deems worthy of his Warrior Princess, despite wanting to pursue traditional education in a school. She is not even allowed to have friends that aren’t black, her mother is not allowed to seek medical care from a white midwife and her father refuses to speak to any of his family members that aren’t a part of his cause. While others in the movement have a say in whether they stay or go, this is Nigeria’s legacy. If she strays off her father’s determined path, she will bring shame upon her family and him as a leader.

It’s an interesting story that can be interpreted differently for each person depending on your background. I finished it in 24 hours; it’s just that good.