Seasons of Crimson Blossoms Seasons of Crimson Blossoms by Abubakar Adam Ibrahim

WINNER OF THE NLNG NIGERIA PRIZE FOR LITERATURE
Synopsis
An affair between 55-year-old widow Binta Zubairu and 26-year-old weed dealer Reza was
bound to provoke condemnation in conservative Northern Nigeria. Brought together in unusual
circumstances, Binta and Reza faced a need they could only satisfy in each other. Binta –
previously reconciled with God – now yearns for intimacy after the sexual repression of her
marriage, the pain of losing her first son and the privations of widowhood. Meanwhile, Reza’s
heart lies empty and waiting to be filled due to the absence of a mother. The situation comes to a
head when Binta’s wealthy son confronts Reza, with disastrous consequences. This story of love
and longing – set against undercurrents of political violence – unfurls gently, revealing layers of
emotion that defy age, class and religion.

About the author
Abubakar Adam Ibrahim is a Nigerian writer and journalist. His debut collection of short stories
‘The Whispering Trees’ was long-listed for the Etisalat Prize for Literature in 2014, with the title
story shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African Writing. Abubakar is a Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Fellow (2013) and a Civitella Ranieri Fellow (2015). In 2014, Abubakar was named in the Hay
Festival Africa39 list of the most promising writers under the age of 40 who will define future
trends in African writing. His debut novel ‘Season of Crimson Blossoms’ has been shortlisted for
the $100,000 NLNG Prize for Literature (2016).

Blurbs
“A powerful and compelling debut. The taboo subject of an older woman’s sexuality, portrayed
with courage, skill and delicacy, is explored in the context of the criminal underworld and the
corrupt politi that exploits it. This is a novel to be savoured.”- Zoë Wicomb, Chair of Judges,
Caine Prize for African Writing.