Happy New Year! 

For our first offering of the year, we will focus less on the similarities that stories share and more on the thematic range on display by the writers on Iko Africa across many genres. From stories that bask in experimentation to work so technically rigid, there is no limit to what you can achieve, so without further ado, let's get into it. 

The first story that caught my eye this year was “Orji,” published by Knots Stories. Orji is a coming-of-age story that follows the titular character through his life in a place where joy is fleeting and life is hard. It is intriguing because it is told from the point of view of a Monstera plant that sits in his room, wishing it could help him through the tough times and share in his joy tangibly. 

“ I longed to compel a smile across his face. I drank lots of sunlight and quickly absorbed the water deluged in the soil. And when Orji was home, I would spread my leaves broadly like a jealous lover so that he might regard me. He often reeled in like a marionette and stroked my leaves faintly, saying, “You look beautiful. I would not fail to take proper care of you.” A promise made and a promise broken in a twinkling of an eye.”

The plant is contemplative in a way plants aren’t, but this very speculative nature elevates the story, earning a spot on the list. 

Still on Sentience where it should not be, “is it yours” by @chikamma is the story of a tumultuous family and their romance from the point of view of the house it all occurs in. Impossibly, this story touches on so many issues in a few words. The house witnesses love and enmity and betrayal in this short but engaging read. 

See? A Houseplant and a house? Iko writers are doing the thing.

If you want a longer read, look no further than “The Wages of Lust”, where a Lagos- based artist becomes entangled in a scheme that puts him at odds with powers beyond him, threatening his relationship and his career. 

Eruke Ojuederie’s “A Man’s Dying Wish” is a man’s introspection on his choices from his youth to his progeny. He inspects his life with remorse, and the writer tells this story where remorse is meaningless even to the thinker. 

The Prey by @damilola is a thrilling story of an ancient kingdom on the edge following a string of murders. It is visceral and triggering, so enter with caution, but we guarantee you will not see it coming. 

What were your favorite stories on Iko this month. Don’t keep them to yourself– someone is always looking for a great read. 

That’s it from HQ for now, until next time. 

Nkereuwem Albert, Iko Africa.