At the Crossroads: Nigerian Travel Writing and Literary Culture in Yoruba and English

A groundbreaking work in African travel writing, this book explores how Nigerians have represented their country to themselves and the world through travel narratives. It analyzes travel writing published from 1914 to 2014 in the Yoruba-speaking region of southwestern Nigeria, arguing that it is a cluster of genres with a cohesive local history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2022
Publisher: James Currey

In the vibrant tapestry of African travel writing, a remarkable work has emerged that has garnered international recognition. Titled "Nigerian Travel Narratives: A Cultural History from Colonization to Independence," this groundbreaking book delves into the rich and diverse narratives crafted by Nigerians across the twentieth century. Authored by Rebecca Jones, this seminal work offers a fresh perspective on the production of Nigerian travel narratives, exploring their intricate connections with both local and global travel writing traditions.

Spanning from 1914 to 2014, this cultural history of Nigerian travel takes readers on a captivating journey through the Yoruba-speaking region of southwestern Nigeria. This region, renowned for its vibrant writing and print culture in both Yoruba and English, serves as the focal point of this scholarly exploration. Through meticulous close readings of a selection of notable works, Jones argues that the production of travel writing in this region cannot be viewed as a mere foreign import but rather as a vibrant cluster of genres with a rich and cohesive local history.

The book features a diverse range of writers, each contributing their unique voice and perspective to the narrative. Prominent figures such as Samuel Ajayi Crowther, I.B. Thomas, E.A. Akintan, Isaac Delano, D.O. Fagunwa, Amos Tutuola, Ben Okri, Babatunde Shadeko, Damilola Ajenifuja, Chibuzor Mirian Azubuike, Pelu Awofeso, Lape Soetan, Teju Cole, Adewale Maja-Pearce, Noo Saro-Wiwa, and the Invisible Borders collective are discussed in depth.

Their stories, woven together with meticulous research and analysis, shed light on the ways in which Nigerians have represented their homeland to themselves and the world. From the colonial era to independence, these narratives capture the essence of Nigerian culture, history, and identity, offering valuable insights into the complexities of nation-building and the role of travel in shaping cultural expressions.

"Nigerian Travel Narratives: A Cultural History from Colonization to Independence" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of African travel writing. It stands as a significant contribution to the critical literature on African travel writing, enriching our understanding of the diverse tapestry of cultures and experiences across the continent. By exploring the rich and complex narratives crafted by Nigerians, this book invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, challenging preconceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the African continent.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781847013354