Nigerian novelist and author of Daughters Who Walk This Path, Yejide Kilanko, wants to write more children’s books in the future: ‘I have had the privilege of publishing two children’s picture books. I want to write more children’s books that feature diverse characters. Every child should be able to see themselves represented in accessible books.’
First Draft is our interview column, featuring authors and other prominent figures on books, reading, and writing.
Our questions are italicized.
What books or kinds of books did you read growing up?
I read widely while growing up. My picks ranged from my father’s books which includes an expansive list of authors such as Wole Soyinka, Lobsang Rampa, Chinua Achebe, Alex Haley, and James Herriot. I also read Archie and Asterix comics. And I loved the African Writers Series and the Pacesetters Series. I still do. In my early teens, I also read many Mills & Boon novels. Romance is good for the soul. The truth is I read pretty much anything I could lay my hands on. Even books that were cut in half. Making up the beginnings or endings was much fun.
If your life so far was a series of texts, which text (fiction or non-fiction) represents you at this moment?
Sue Grafton’s Kinsey Millhone Alphabet series is fitting as I feel like I am usually playing detective while navigating different aspects of my life. The series ends with Y Is for Yesterday. Y is also for Yejide. She always has a story to tell.
What’s the last thing you read that changed your mind about something?
The Three of Us by Ore Agbaje-Williams. No spoilers from me.
I read pretty much anything I could lay my hands on. Even books that were cut in half. Making up the beginnings or endings was much fun.
What is your writing process: edit as you write or draft first, then edit?
I often edit the previous day’s work before moving on with the story.
What was your process for writing your debut novel, Daughters Who Walk This Path?
Daughters Who Walk This Path came into being as a poem titled ‘Silence Speaks’. It was my first novel manuscript, so I did not have a process. I just wrote.
How similar or different was it from the writing process of your latest novel, A Good Name?
With A Good Name, I had an extensive outline which offered me a sense of direction. The outline was fluid in that certain scenes or chapters changed as the story unfolded.
This novel explores numerous themes including immigrant life and societal expectation. What inspired you to write it?
When I started writing A Good Name in October 2010, the heartbreaking domestic violence stories of some Nigerian nurses living in America featured in the headlines. I had to write their story because it is how I process issues that hold my attention.
What’s the most interesting reaction/feedback you’ve had about A Good Name?
I’m surprised and pleased by how many readers empathize with Eziafa, the protagonist. I had worked hard to create a multifaceted character.
I want to write more children’s books which feature diverse characters. Every child should be able to see themselves represented in accessible books.
You’ve recently been shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African Writing for your story, ‘This Tangible Thing’. What were you curious about when you wrote this story?
I was curious about the things that silence us and how we find our voices again.
Who are the young African/Nigerian authors you’re most excited about today (and why?)
Bolu Babalola’s Love in Colour was brilliant because it challenges readers to look differently at age-old narratives. As someone who writes and celebrates flash fiction, Riham Adly’s work also checks my box.
What is your favourite topic to write or read about these days?
I have had the privilege of publishing two children’s picture books. I want to write more children’s books which feature diverse characters. Every child should be able to see themselves represented in accessible books.
What’s the best book you’ve read so far this year, and why?
The Three of Us by Ore Agbaje-Williams. It was a quick, captivating, thought-provoking read.
What are you currently working on?
Nothing due to other pressing commitments. As soon as things ease up, I do intend to continue working on a children’s picture book with the working title, When the Colours Went Away.
Question from Leila Aboulela: Which book have your read more than twice?
I’ve read many books more than twice. What I get out of the experience depends on the season I’m living. I’m going to say, Animal Farm by George Orwell. I also enjoyed writing a parody inspired by the book.
Bonus: Please suggest a question for a future author’s First Draft
Who is your favourite antagonist, and why?⎈
We want to hear what you think about this interview. Submit a letter to the editors by writing to [email protected].