Unfortunately, this book wasn't for me. The plot was not engaging despite the many events. I also don't understand why it was marketed as the 'Nigerian Catcher in the Rye'.

I really enjoyed this book. It was a bit slow in the beginning but once past the first few chapters the story began to pick up. The prose was amazing and I loved the storytelling. I learnt so much about Igbo culture from this book as well, lol

We follow Dimkpa, he is the most frustrating character you will encounter in the book world but also intriguing.

He looks forward to his father becoming the head of the village, after the village head passes on . Only to be disappointed when his father wasn’t chosen by the village heads. His father’s elevation in the village would’ve done his family some good but the struggle of life continues.
His family has to sell their land to give him an education and better himself only for him to return back to the village with nothing due to making wrong decision in . This is a typical story of life in an African village.

“The Liquid Eye of a Moon” is a poignant exploration of the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity. It highlights the importance of knowledge, the power of self-belief, and the value of living in the present. This novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for a better life. The novel takes readers on an immersive journey through the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria, from the small village life to the bustling streets of Lagos and the significant town of Awka. Each setting is richly depicted, allowing readers to fully grasp the contrasts and complexities of Dimkpa’s world.
Dimkpa’s dreams are relatable and heart-wrenching. He longs for his family’s upliftment from the lowest Igbo caste, hoping that his father’s rise to village head will bring about the much-needed change. The story poignantly captures the weight of his dreams and the disillusionment that follows when his father is overlooked for a younger, less experienced candidate. This pivotal moment sets Dimkpa on a path of self-determination, pushing him to forge his own destiny.
In conclusion, “The Liquid Eye of a Moon” is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that resonates with readers of all ages. Dimkpa’s journey is a powerful reminder that while the path to one’s dreams may be fraught with challenges, the journey itself is invaluable. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a story of hope, determination, and the complexities of growing up.

Thank you Netgalley and Scribe UK for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Calling this the 'Nigerian Catcher in the Rye' is the most lazy way of saying that this is a coming-of-age novel. I thought this was good in its own right but marketing it compared to that book is setting it up for failure. I didn’t really gel with the writing or find the plot super engaging but in glad it was deeply steeped in Nigerian folklore and history.