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By Damiete Braide
Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor’s literary journey has reached a new milestone with her latest book, A Father’s Pride. Twice longlisted for the prestigious Nigeria Prize for Literature in the children’s category, Chiazor-Enenmor’s latest work is a testament to her dedication to children’s literature. This book not only captivates young readers but also carries profound messages about cultural preservation, child rights, and environmental stewardship.
A Father’s Pride is a vibrant tale set in a Nigerian community, centered around a loving father and his three daughters. The protagonist, Urenna, and her siblings embody the central themes of the book: the protection of children, the preservation of culture, and the advocacy for environmental protection. These themes are not just narrative elements but reflect Chiazor-Enenmor’s deep-seated values and concerns.
The story unfolds in a society where traditional gender roles often overshadow the value of female children. Urenna’s father, however, stands as a beacon of equality and love. Despite societal pressure to have a male heir, he cherishes his daughters equally and defies norms by teaching them skills traditionally reserved for boys. Urenna learns to hunt and play the traditional flute, embodying her father’s belief that every child, regardless of gender, is important. The book’s title, A Father’s Pride, resonates deeply with this sentiment, highlighting Urenna’s father’s pride in his daughters and his refusal to conform to outdated expectations.
In addition to its powerful message about gender equality, A Father’s Pride is a celebration of Nigerian culture. The book features 95% of characters with Nigerian names and incorporates elements of local languages, ensuring that young readers see their cultural heritage reflected in the story. Chiazor-Enenmor’s commitment to local content is evident in her portrayal of traditional practices and values, which are woven seamlessly into the narrative.
The book also addresses the pressing issue of environmental conservation. Through engaging storytelling, Chiazor-Enenmor emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment. The narrative includes practical advice on simple actions like recycling and planting, encouraging children to become responsible stewards of their surroundings. This focus on environmental stewardship is particularly relevant in today’s world, where the impact of human activity on nature is a growing concern.
One of the book’s unique features is the inclusion of activity pages at the end. These pages are designed to reinforce the story’s messages and provide children with constructive ways to spend their time. Divided into sections on culture, environmental protection, and child rights, the activities are crafted to engage children beyond the confines of the story. This interactive approach not only makes learning fun but also helps children apply the lessons from the book in their daily lives.
Chiazor-Enenmor’s narrative is characterized by its simplicity and intensity. The dialogue is crafted to be accessible yet engaging, allowing young readers to connect deeply with the characters. Unlike her previous work, which was longlisted in 2019, A Father’s Pride features a larger cast of characters, including active roles for children. This allows young readers to see themselves in the story and relate to the experiences of the characters.
The book also addresses the issue of excessive screen time, advocating for a balance between digital and real-world activities. Chiazor-Enenmor’s narrative encourages children to engage in meaningful activities beyond their devices, promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
Parental legacy plays a significant role in A Father’s Pride. Urenna’s father’s dedication to his daughters serves as a powerful example of how parental influence can shape children’s aspirations and values. In a society where male children are often valued more, Urenna’s father’s actions highlight the importance of equality and respect for all children. This message extends beyond the pages of the book, resonating with parents and society at large.
Chiazor-Enenmor’s journey with A Father’s Pride was not without its challenges. It took her four years to complete the book, during which the title evolved from Sad Sadiya to Sad Sadara. The change in title reflects her desire to accurately portray the cultural context she is most familiar with, drawing from her Igbo heritage. The protagonist, Urenna, embodies the experiences of many children who suffer from maltreatment and domestic violence, making the book a poignant exploration of these issues.
Chiazor-Enenmor’s passion for storytelling is evident in her work. Influenced by authors like Mabel Segun, Enid Blyton, and Ifeoma Okoye, she has crafted over ten children’s books, each reflecting her commitment to engaging and educating young readers. Although she began her writing career with children’s literature, she has since expanded her repertoire to include drama, though poetry remains outside her comfort zone.
Should she win the Nigeria Prize for Literature, Chiazor-Enenmor plans to invest the prize money in book donations for children from low-income families. Her frustration with the lack of practical support for children’s education drives her commitment to making a tangible impact. She believes that providing books is a more meaningful contribution than symbolic gestures.
Chiazor-Enenmor also commends the Nigeria LNG for sustaining its literary prize over the past 20 years. The consistency of the prize has motivated authors to continue producing high-quality work, and Chiazor-Enenmor is no exception. Her book, A Father’s Pride, is a reflection of her dedication to both storytelling and the broader social issues affecting children today.
In summary, A Father’s Pride is more than just a children’s book; it is a powerful statement on cultural preservation, gender equality, and environmental stewardship. Through her engaging narrative and interactive elements, Chiazor-Enenmor has created a work that not only entertains but also educates and inspires young readers. As she continues to make waves in the literary world, her commitment to these important issues remains at the forefront of her work.
