Some Angels Don't See God by Ever Obi differs from other books I've read.
The book is set in Nigeria and revolves around the lives of two unhappy characters, Peter and Neta, and other families.
Although he was adopted, Peter is the first child of his parents and has beautiful memories of childhood with his brother. However, as they age, things get sour after their dad passes away, and life becomes complicated for their mum.
However, they pull through with support from friends and family, and in the end, Peter becomes a successful young banker. On the other hand, Neta and Jeta's (biological children of their parents) lives take an awful turn.
Peter and Neta's stories are intertwined, and their unique story arc made me understand the story better. It hurts that Neta didn't get to have a happy ending after all that she went through. On the other hand, Peter had me vexed because of how he acted towards Neta after knowing everything about her past. In addition, the twins' mother behaved awfully toward her children. She wasn't a good mother, in my opinion.
One crucial talking point in this book is how important it is for parents to be actively involved in their children's life. Nowadays, children are left in the care of their nannies or maids to be catered for, which, in my opinion, is not 100 per cent okay.
Parents have a vital role to play in their children's lives, and it's essential to pay close attention to everything that goes on with them. Incest is a major theme in this book. The twins Jeta and Neta are exposed to sex early by their housekeeper, Aunty Chidinma, who is desperate to satisfy her sexual desires and exploit the twins for her gain.
Meanwhile, the twin's parents stay ignorant of the deed until it is too late. Eventually, the sexual relationship between the twins has a lasting and awful effect on their lives and the people around them.
While reading through the story, I had compassion for Neta. The mistakes from her childhood haunted her throughout university and affected her relationship with people (men). Jeta's life turned out just as bad, and I wish he hadn't turned out the way he did and that he had expressed remorse for his actions as his sister did. Peter also had his share of bad experiences.
There are lessons to be learnt from this book. Parents must be physically and emotionally present in their children's lives, keep an eye on them and not neglect them. Also, parents should learn to forgive and love their children no matter the offence they've committed.
This book made me feel equally sad, angry, and compassionate, but it's still a good read. Highly recommended.
