Review of Ancestors

[Ngozi Onyibor]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Ancestors" by Jan C. Thorpe.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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It's been ten years since Moremi moved to the U.S. from Nigeria. Still, a successful husband, a son, and a nice upper-middle-class life in America couldn't tame her soul's discontent and longing for home. The persistent feeling that her husband is hiding something from her isn't helping the growing void between them either. They had drifted apart, but neither was willing to confront the truth. Lately, Mami's call for Moremi to take up the ways of her matrilineal line was getting louder, her prodding more urgent and forceful. Moremi thought leaving Nigeria would end it, but it didn't. So she followed a colleague's suggestion and visited a therapist to make sense of her feelings. Along the line, she discovers her husband's family's secret and its connection to what happened to her parents. And he would do anything to protect his family's legacy. As a result, Moremi's life becomes intertwined with that of her therapist in more ways than one.

I like the author's writing style. She has a knack for descriptive writing. She described Moremi's emotions so well; it was easy for me to connect with her character. The book features many other likeable personalities, but Moremi and Hugo were my favourite people.

Another aspect of the book I enjoyed is the quotes that precede every chapter. They were inspiring and gave me a subtle inkling of what the chapter was about. I also liked the information I learned about the human psyche.

As a Nigerian, I noticed some misconceptions in the story that betrays the author's lack of knowledge and in-depth research about Nigerian society and culture. Therefore, I will address a few in compliance with the no spoilers guideline.

First, some characters' names aren't fitting for their tribes. Nigeria is a multi-tribal country, and tribal names are a big part of a person's tribal and cultural identity. Hence, it's rare for a person from one tribe to bear a name peculiar to another tribe unless one of the person's parents is from the said tribe. So it's unlikely that Moremi's Yoruba grandmother will be named Buchi. Buchi is an Igbo name. Also, Osaze is an Edo name, not Igbo.

Again, though Nigeria is a country in West Africa, its cuisine differs vastly from the cuisine of neighbouring countries. That said, Baton De Manioc is not Nigerian food.

Overall, the author did a decent job. Her premise is unique. She explores spirituality through dreams and culture. Sadly, the book isn't well researched. Still, I believe it holds some entertainment value. So I rate it 3 out of 4 stars. I'm deducting a star for the poor research. Though I spotted over a dozen errors while reading the book, they were primarily minor comma errors; I don't think they warrant deducting a star.

Provided prospective readers don't mistake it for a representation of Nigerian culture, Ancestors by Jan C. Thorpe will appeal to fans of mystic and psychological novels. However, readers should beware that it contains some violence. Sensitive readers might want to pick something else.

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Ancestors
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[Aisha Yakub]

I can imagine how you felt about the observations you made while reading this book. Personal knowledge aside, I think it's really creative of the author. Thank you for your review.

[Amy Luman]

Many of the things mentioned in this review keep me from wanting to read this book. While I love learning about other cultures, this is clearly erroneous. I do hope that Moremi and her husband can work out their problems.

[Sharon Christanto]

Thank you for the insightful review! I'm from Asia and really curious with Nigerian culture. Although there are some misconceptions, I still want to give it a try. I'll do more research regarding Nigerian topic to broaden my knowledge

[Emmanuella C Arumeze]

Moremi seems like an intriguing character. I would love to read this book. I enjoyed your review, thank you for recommending it.

[Nwadinso Okoro]

This is a crime thrilling book that delves into the life and ordeals of the main character, Moremi. From the review, there are certain things that are quite erroneous yet I'd still want to read the book. The author's writing style was interesting, good description.

[Amiczy Heaven]

This is a book I’ll enjoy. I wonder what happened to Moremi’s parents and how her husband’s family is responsible. Your review is insightful.

[Mbenma Esther 080]

I enjoy reading books that have quotes in them. It increases my bank of knowledge. Thanks for the review

[NetMassimo]

Despite the flaws you pointed out, this seems like an engaging psychological thriller that includes some mysticism. Thank you for your great review and your explanations about Nigerian culture and society!

[Ronnie Comendador 1]

I think it holds some entertainment value however it comtains some violence,! thanks! I enjoyed your review..