Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband? by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn

It was a light, easy, and mildly entertaining novel. The type of novel that you can read, be satisfied with and then absolutely forget mostly because it’s not the kind of story that stays with you.

Meet Yinka. A 31-year-old British Nigerian woman who is single and is under pressure from within and without to get a husband. Yinka’s story explores a lot of themes. Actually, a better way to describe it would be ‘scratched the surface‘ of several themes. Because only then would it be the light, entertaining story it is.

First, there’s Yinka, who, despite being a successful person all her life, has insecurities about her worth and, surprisingly, her dark skin. I can’t relate to (maybe because I am a guy?), although I found it pretty sad.

The story also showcases a strong sense of family and community of Nigerians living abroad. I enjoyed this part of it because it’s relatable. It doesn’t really change wherever you are. While one’s family is great to have around, there’s this pressure to conform to their expectations, intentional or not. Yinka has to deal with her Mother and Aunties, finding a ‘huzband’ and comparing herself with her lighter-skinned sister. It’s interesting to note that although Yinka is born in the U.K, she’s more Nigerian than British.

Finally, does a woman need a husband to be happy? Well, if you are Nigerian, you definitely do.

Finally, does a woman need a husband to be happy? Well, if you are Nigerian, you definitely do. (Lol! Kidding). I believe this to be the main theme of the book. Nigerians and their prayers for financial prosperity (if you’re a guy), huzband (if you’re a single woman, FYI guys don’t pray for wives), and the fruit of the womb. (For married women).

I enjoyed reading Yinka Where is Your Husband. It was a light, easy, and mildly entertaining novel. The type of novel that you can read, be satisfied with and then absolutely forget mostly because it’s not the kind of story that stays with you. I think that’s mostly due to the neutral stance it takes on most of the topics touch. Aside from the message of self-love, nothing is strongly defined. For instance, the setting is neither completely Nigerian nor British, just finely balanced enough to cancel each other out. Yinka is religious but not religious enough to make a difference. Online dating or meeting people in real life, no clear stance. In other words, there’s no major conflict Yinka goes through, just self-growth, which is cool but doesn’t make for a memorable story. However, the writing was easy to fall into, and I liked the feel-good ending.

Therefore, I give it a rating of 3 out of 5 stars. I’d also recommend it to anyone looking for a fun read about the Nigerian expectations of marriage. Have you read it? Share your thoughts below.