Stay with Me by Ayobami Adebayo

Stay with Me by Ayobami Adebayo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A compelling story about Yejide and Akin and their desire to have children. A story about betrayal, loss and family. It is full of African folklore stories and proverbs. It's almost hard to believe that this is Adebayo's debut novel with the rich language and suspense she weaves in her storytelling.
The book also tells the political situation associated with the setting of the story which is the 80's and 90's in Nigeria. It depicts cultural expectations of first sons, Akin full name Akinyele was constantly reminded by his Moomi - mother of his responsibility as a first son. The same is depicted during burial rites.
A wonderful read. And as usual I will share some great quotes on the book although with such a book it was hard to pick favorites..

“She said the word 'beautiful' as if beauty was a bad habit Bolu had developed, something bordering on criminal behavior for which she would one day be justifiably punished.”

“Before you call the snail a weakling, tie your house to your back and carry it around for a week”