Zakariyya Nofiu’s debut poetry collection, The Little We Grow, We Fly, is a tapestry of emotions, weaving together themes of life, love, loss, and the human condition.
It’s a book that promises to take you on a journey—one that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
But does it soar to the heights it aspires to, or does it falter under the weight of its ambitions? The answer, much like the poems themselves, is complex and layered.
Summary
The collection is a mosaic of reflections on existence, from the fragility of life to the enduring power of love. Nofiu explores the interplay between growth and freedom, often juxtaposing the beauty of human experience with its inherent struggles.
The poems are rich with imagery, drawing from nature, family, and cultural traditions to paint vivid pictures of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. Yet, for all its beauty, the collection occasionally stumbles, leaving the reader torn between admiration and frustration.
Nofiu’s strength lies in his ability to evoke raw emotion. Poems like We Lost Her and Sadness Is Another Death are hauntingly poignant, capturing the essence of grief with a simplicity that is both striking and relatable.
Imagery and symbolism
This poem has powerful visuals. From fish protesting cold water to rain falling in the heart, Nofiu paints emotion with bold, unexpected strokes. Birds, trees, graves, even missed calls—all are symbols delicately used.
But it’s not just beauty for beauty’s sake. Every metaphor carries a deeper message. The swinging tree doesn’t just move—it represents life’s constant shifts. The graves don’t just lie silent—they whisper lessons. It's as though the poem asks us: Can you see the world differently if you slow down and listen? The answer lies hidden in the lines.
Themes
The poet takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions. Grief is ever-present but so is love—mother’s love, father’s laughter, unrequited affection, and even fake love. Each feeling is raw.
The poem doesn't dress sorrow in fine clothes. Instead, it lets pain show up messy and unfiltered. Growth is another strong theme. Childhood is romanticized, adulthood is questioned, and old age looms like a quiet shadow.
Nofiu doesn’t just write about growing up. He questions what we lose along the way. Can one fly and still stay grounded? Do we ever truly leave home? These aren't just rhetorical—they're deeply felt.
Tone and language
The language of The Little We Grow, We Fly is clear and direct. No fancy words, no hiding behind literary jargon. Just honest emotion. The tone swings from conversational to poetic, from playful to devastating.
Even when the poet writes about pain, the tone doesn’t wallow—it reflects. That balance is hard to pull off. But here, it works. The simplicity allows every reader to connect. Whether it’s a lost parent, a broken love, or a fading memory—we’ve all been there in one way or another.
Language
Some poems resonate deeply, while others fall flat, leaving the reader yearning for more cohesion. The occasional use of Arabic and Yoruba adds a cultural richness, but without translation or context, these moments may alienate readers unfamiliar with the languages.
Nofiu’s language is both lyrical and accessible, a rare combination that makes the collection appealing to a wide audience.
However, the simplicity of the language can sometimes undermine the complexity of the themes. While some poems are profound in their brevity, others feel underdeveloped, as if the poet stopped short of fully exploring the ideas at hand.
This inconsistency can be jarring, pulling the reader out of the immersive experience the collection strives to create.
Verdict
In a world full of noise, The Little We Grow, We Fly is a quiet thunder. It doesn’t shout, but it stays with you. And maybe, just maybe—that’s what makes it so powerful.
Nofiu’s strength lies in his ability to evoke raw emotion. Poems like We Lost Her and Sadness Is Another Death are hauntingly poignant, capturing the essence of grief with a simplicity that is both striking and relatable.
The imagery of nature—birds, trees, rivers—serves as a powerful metaphor for human experiences, grounding abstract emotions in tangible reality.
-ARC Review: Coming-of-age, heartfelt, and delightfully raunchy.
Sometimes, you just want to read about teenagers being teenagers—navigating friendships, first loves, awkward family moments, and all the chaos in between.
Out in Greenwood delivers exactly that with humour, heart and a cast of characters that mostly feel alive on the page.
Synopsis
The story follows Tim Johnson, a fifteen-year-old, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence in a small town. He’s out, but life hasn’t changed as much as he expected. Between summer jobs, family drama, and complicated friendships, he’s still figuring out who he is and what he wants.
When a new friendship begins to stir unexpected emotions, Tim finds himself at the centre of a whirlwind summer filled with self-discovery, personal challenges, and the kind of moments that define growing up.
Thoughts
There’s a rawness to the story. It doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of growing up—the uncertainty, the self-doubt, the awkwardness of relationships (romantic and platonic), and the moments that feel like the end of the world but turn out to be just another step toward figuring things out.
Although sometimes the novel leans into semi-unrealistic conversations, its high level of entertainment and dialogue-heavy storytelling makes it feel like you’re right there, listening to a group of witty, dramatic, and seemingly charming teens.
And honestly, I think that is part of its magic.
Verdict
It’s refreshing to see a story that embraces both the highs and lows of teenage life—more so a queer teenage life—without trying to fit into a perfect mould. I believe these experiences also matter.
I’ll be honest—this isn’t the kind of book I would usually pick up on a shelf. Perhaps because it is a little too YA for my taste? But if it were a movie, I’d absolutely watch it (maybe a movie adaption for this, too? It would be swell!)
That said, Out In Greenwood was a nice YA read. The book balances lightheartedness with emotional depth. It’s fun, heartfelt, engaging and leaves you with that nostalgic feeling of remembering what it’s like to be young and full of possibility.
The title, Nothing Comes Close, by Tolulope Popoola, hints at something intense—perhaps love, perhaps loss. The story itself combines more than one genre, leaving something both mild and fast-paced.
Synopsis
Nothing Comes Close is a story about Lola, a Nigerian woman living in London, and Wole, a mysterious man with a complicated past. Their paths cross in a romantic setup: a mutual friend's birthday party.
What starts out as a casual spark quickly deepens into something more—though not without secrets, betrayals, and personal baggage threatening to derail it all. As the couple navigates careers, friendships, and haunting memories, their story dances between passion and peril.
Premise
At its heart, Nothing Comes Close explores what it means to start over. To forgive. To let someone in despite fear.
The subplots involving secondary characters (like Titi's doomed love life or Maureen's fashion dreams) are charming but slightly distract from the main arc.
Is this a romance? A drama? A character study? It flirts with all three but doesn't fully commit, leaving it an appealing yet enigmatic read for audiences.
Thoughts
Nothing Comes Close is African Literature that blends several other genres, including romance. While fans of more complex works may struggle to be drawn in by the writing style, many readers will find the intriguing characters and paunchy storyline to be appealing.
Writing style and tone
Popoola's writing appeals to fans of easy literature. The dialogue scenes are the focus of the narrative, and we see the characters mostly through that element.
Although the narrative could be a bit over the top, the conversational tone makes it easy to breeze through pages without realizing how much time has passed.
The author's knack for capturing casual banter and everyday settings with vivid realism is both refreshing and entertaining.
Characterization
Lola is written with depth. She's relatable and flawed and has colourful friends who offer diverse perspectives on relationships and culture. Wole, the other main character, leans heavily into the "tall, dark, and damaged" archetype.
While his layers unravel slowly (a good thing), some readers might find his brooding demeanour predictable. That said, the chemistry between him and Lolo feels real—playful, tense, and occasionally electric.
Themes
The novel does more than serve a romantic plot—it tackles identity, migration, trust, and the invisible scars of past trauma.
The story's intercross-cultural lens attempts to blend Nigerian traditions with British urban life. As a book written by a Nigerian in the diaspora, Nothing Comes Close is written from this perspective, which is reflected in various elements of the book, including setting and dialogue.
Verdict
Nothing Comes Close has moments of brilliance. We get a mixed package, with Lola's witty reflections, the unspoken thrill and tension around Wole's past, and some YA-ey, direct dialogue.
If you're a fan of emotionally grounded stories with cultural flavour and romantic depth, Nothing Comes Close is definitely worth your time.
Marvel has a knack for making its villains more than just one-dimensional baddies. They give them depth, motivation, and sometimes, just enough heart to make you question if they’re really all that evil.
It’s one of my favorite things about the MCU—reminding us that there’s a story, a reason, and maybe even a little redemption arc waiting to happen behind every villain.
I had a love-hate relationship with Agatha Harkness after watching WandaVision. I hated what she did, but damn, did I love her sass and attitude. By the end of Agatha All Along, I wanted to see her grow, maybe even turn over a new leaf. Did she? Eh, not really. But she did try… to an extent. And that’s why I was all in when I heard about Agatha All Along.
I binged the show as each episode dropped, and I meant to write this review ages ago. Life got in the way, but hey, better late than never. Instead of a traditional review, I’ll give you ten solid reasons why you should absolutely watch this miniseries.
Quick Backstory
Agatha Harkness is one of the most dangerous witches in the MCU. She wiped out her coven (and dozens more), has zero regard for anyone but herself, and is generally a menace. After WandaVision, she was left trapped in Westview under Wanda’s spell, powerless and stuck in a fake life. But three years later, she’s freed by a mysterious teen who needs her help with a witches’ trial. And so begins the chaotic, snark-filled, witchy adventure that is the show Agatha All Along.
I loved every second of it, and here’s why.
Reason 1: It Explores the Aftermath of WandaVision
If you were obsessed with WandaVision (like most of us), you’d love to see how its events ripple through the MCU. Agatha All Along digs into the consequences of Wanda’s reality-warping drama, reminding us that magic has rules—and a price.
We see the after-effects of Wanda enslaving an entire town to live out her grief-induced fantasy life with Vision and their kids, trapping them in a fictitious sitcom.
Most people still consider WandaVision one of the best Marvel TV series ever, thanks to its fresh tone, sitcom-esque vibe, and beautiful storytelling.
Before watching this show, you might want to catch up on WandaVision first, and maybe Doctore Strange Multiverse of Madness (optional, but helpful).
Reason 2: The Mystery of Teen
Right off the bat, we’re introduced to a teenage character, William Kaplan, nicknamed Teen by Agatha because each time he tries to introduce himself, his words are muffled by a sigil. Even though Marvel comics fans had already speculated who the boy was, his identity was still a mystery to regular viewers.
Who was this strange boy, and who cast a spell on him that stopped anyone from discovering his true identity? And why was it such a secret? You can already see how Agatha would be fascinated by this young witch. It isn’t until later in the episodes that we learn his name and identity.
Reason 3: The Set Design Is Unreal
Agatha All Along had the lowest budget of any Marvel movie or TV series. Disney didn’t seem to have high hopes for the show when they greenlit it, but jokes on them—it became an instant hit, flooding TikTok with theories and reactions.
With a limited budget, the team relied on practical effects over CGI, which made the world feel richer and more immersive. The crew had to build every set from scratch (including the elaborate Witches Road)
The productions’ adoption of physical effects over visual effects made the action feel more real and impressive. The Witches Road was a perfect example of why studios should lean into practical set design more often.
Reason 4: Perfect Casting
Kathryn Hahn owns the role of Agatha. I don’t know if anyone else could have pulled it off. She was hilariously nasty in the role, and I had a kind of love-hate relationship with her character. I know we’re supposed to hate Agatha because she has committed so many atrocities, but you just can’t help but love her sass and lack of filter.
Sure, Agatha is always scheming new ways to protect her skin and steal other witches' powers, but Kathryn Hahn’s portrayal in the series shows us another side of the character. And against all odds, you find yourself rooting for her to win (even though she probably shouldn’t). Right from the bat, you know Agatha’s motives for going on the Witches Road aren’t pure.
Audrey Plaza as Rio Vidal/Death was such a brilliant casting choice because she complemented Kathryn Hahn’s Agatha. Their chemistry was off the charts. Honestly, I’d watch almost anything with Aubrey Plaza. I just love her that much.
The rest of the cast? Flawless. Joe Locke nailed it as Billy, Patti Lupone as Lilia Calderu was perfect, and Sasheer Zamata did an impressive job as the bound sorceress, Jen.
Reason 5: The Spooky Factor Is Top-Tier
You best believe that a show like Agatha All Along would get a Halloween release date. The creepy vibes were on point with the Salem Seven. You could see the fear and dread they caused Agatha and other people from their first entrance. They were uncomfortable to watch half the time, from their creepy, flowy black hoods to their synchronized movements.
And don’t get me started on the hallucinations and trials during the Witches’ Road. Some moments had me genuinely uneasy. The writer, actors, and entire production team did a pretty good job here.
Reason 6: More Depth to the MCU Witches Lore
Agatha All Along expands more on the MCU wizards and witches. The show introduces us to new covens and a wider mythology, showing us just how extensive this section of the MCU is.
The miniseries also shows heavy influence from the Wizard of Oz, especially in the design of the Witches Road.
Reason 7: Morally Grey Characters Done Right
You'll love this show if you don’t mind morally ambiguous characters, as opposed to the black or white ones. Agatha isn’t a hero—she’s an opportunist. At the start of the miniseries, Agatha believes she’s a detective in Westview, stuck in a crime drama thanks to Wanda’s spell.
Agatha’s prison life starts to unravel after Wanda’s death (in Multiverse of Madness), and her world starts collapsing on itself until Teen lifts the spell and she regains her freedom.
Now that she’s back to normal, Agatha tries to regain her powers by doing what she does best: double-crossing and backstabbing people. She’s always been about saving herself, and no one can stand in her way. But along the line, we start to see cracks in her snarky, tough exterior. There’s depth to her character that’s rare in the MCU shows, making her one of the most fascinating villains we’ve seen in a while.
Reason 8: Genre-Blending Brilliance
Marvel’s best TV shows break the usual superhero formula, and Agatha All Along is no exception. One of the reasons WandaVision was so popular was that it was pretty different from the typical MCU movie format. It switched up the MCU formula. Agatha All Along continues where it stopped, bringing other genres outside the MCU’s superhero, action, and adventure formula.
The show doesn’t offer any heroes or the traditional good guys. The main protagonist is a shady 400-year-old witch with a history of backstabbing and killing that goes back to the Middle Ages.
We enjoy a mix of comedy, fantasy, adventure, and horror elements in Agatha All Along. Even though the show explores mostly dark and grim themes like life and death, it still stays grounded without overdoing any of the elements. It’s a breath of fresh air in the MCU.
Reason 9: A Kickass Female Ensemble
It’s rare to see an MCU project dominated by strong female leads that’s received so positively. But this one? Absolute win. It’s still a rare feat for Marvel.
This show has no shortage of strong female characters, from Agatha to Jen. They all shine in their respective roles. Agatha selects the witches to make up her coven to travel down the Witches Road; each has a role to play (which they did marvelously).
Agatha’s coven consists of unique, flawed, powerful women, each bringing something crucial to the story. Their chemistry? Unmatched. It’s one of the show’s biggest strengths.
Reason 10: The Misfit Trope Works Perfectly
None of the characters in Agatha All Along are popular or in a great place when they band together. Agatha is powerless, Lilia is slowly losing her mind, Jen’s powers are bound, Alice is disillusioned, and Teen doesn’t remember his past. They make up a ragtag coven who neither likes nor trusts the other. Except for Teen, he’s like the baby tagging along with the adults, or so you’re made to believe. But somehow, they work.
When the show begins, you see these unfamiliar characters and don’t know what their deal is, but as the episodes progress, you start to root for them and watch as the pieces fall into place.
Episode seven remains my favorite of the show because that’s when all the seemingly random pieces come together in a way that’s so satisfying.
And there you have it—ten reasons why Agatha All Along absolutely deserves a spot on your watchlist. If you haven’t seen it yet, what are you waiting for?
Fine, no book lover will ever turn down the gift of a book from their significant other, or anyone for that matter. But, as far as book lover gifts are concerned, there are more ways than one to impress your partner.
Forget about the bookmarks, highlighters, and other cute bookish stationery you're considering. Level up your gifting game by considering some of these fun, unusual presents for your loved ones:
1. Rare editions of their favourite book
Now, calm your horses. It's a book, you say. But it's not just not just any book. As long as the book involved is their favorite or at least one of their very favorites, your loved one will definitely treasure the sprayed edges, gilded book covers, or rare art on the book cover.
Gifting books to book lovers is a no-brainer, but making them extra special in this way will warm your lover's heart like almost nothing else will.
2. Commissioned book fanart
If your significant other is a big follower of bookish trends, series, worlds, or characters, you can commission an artist to produce something beautiful straight from the world of that fandom.
For instance, if they love The Wheel of Time, you can commission a nice map of Randland. If they're always yapping about their favorite character from a book, you can make an artistic replica and present it to them as a gift.
Commissioning original book fanart can be quite expensive, but if you're on a budget, you can still do the same, but with free-to-use images. Trust me, they'll appreciate it, whichever one you choose.
3. A meeting with their favorite author
Many of the more thoughtful gifts you give your non-reader friends aren't even physical. Similarly, gifts for book lovers don't always have to be material.
Arranging a surprise meeting with their favorite author is a surefire way to get them to fall in love with you again. While this particular surprise may not be accessible to everyone for various reasons, it's something to consider if you have the ways and means to make it happen.
You'll be thrilled at the show of happiness, especially if they've never met the author before.
4. Their favourite item, branded
Now, I won't go on stating whether you should buy kitchenware, clothes, accessories, or sports gear. You know what your significant other likes; I don't.
But once you've identified it, procure the item and brand it with something bookish that they can relate to. There's no point ordering a custom Gucci shirt with a quote from Things Fall Apart when they don't read African Literature.
Again, like everything regarding presents, the best gifts are always intentional, never random.
5. An artwork of their favorite book cover
Commissioned fanart is a great book-lover gift idea, but artwork of their favorite book cover is just as awesome.
Note, however, that their favorite book may not necessarily be the cover that they admire the most. So, you'll have to do some prodding and subtle detective work to discover the cover they actually like.
You'll probably spend less than you would for commissioned art while getting the same level of satisfaction from their pleasure at receiving your gift.
6. An ebook about how you both met
I speak from personal experience here when I say this is the best, most thoughtful book-lover gift I've ever received.
It admittedly takes a bit of effort, especially if you aren't a writer to begin with. Tempted as you may be to outsource the entire writing to a professional, it takes something out of the gesture. So, best ensure that the original words are yours. That way, they hold much meaning for who they're intended for, even if edited by a third party for clarity and grammatical correctness.
Whether it's a few pages of text or a lengthy chronicle, gifting your lover such an ebook is a unique and beautiful way to show that you care for them in the precise way that they love.
P.S. My own ebook came with a personalized book cover from a photo of us. A very thoughtful woman, my Margaret.
7. An e-reader
If your partner doesn't have one, you can never go wrong with gifting them an e-reader. While older models of Kindles and Kobos get the job done just right, there's no harm in going the extra mile with the advanced versions if you can afford it.
Ebook readers make a great gift for a bookish partner and show your loved one that you care about the things that make them happy.
8. A new bookshelf
If your significant other has a lot of physical books, you can do no wrong by getting them a new bookshelf.
You can check for aesthetic furniture designs online and select one based on your lover's tastes. You can have it custom-made or purchase ready-made bookshelves.
9. Cake
When in doubt, turn to cake. Only demons and ghouls say no to cake, and, provided your bookish lover is neither, they'll always be delighted at this classic gift.
You can go the extra mile with fancy (or book-themed) cake or stick to a plain old cake. Whichever case, they'll surely be happy with the gesture.
10. Curated playlists
This is perhaps the most difficult book-lover gift idea on this list to execute. But it's worth it if you have the wherewithal to execute it perfectly. Like the best gifts, it has to be intentional. And, to get it right, you have to take the time to observe your partner.
You can start by picking up a book or series your significant other rates highly, whether or not they've read it. Then, skim through it or look it up online for themes that resonate with your music picks. Do this for one book or several, and send it to your partner.
It's not necessarily as flamboyant as commissioned art or a rare book edition. But it's certainly unique. And, best of all, it's thoughtful.
Wrapping up
You may grumble about the cost of the gift ideas here. None of them are really cheap, truth be told. But nobody ever told you that having a bookish partner was cheap.
You fell for them. Now, deal with the consequences!
Share your ideas in the comments on other fun book-lover gift ideas you might have!
Building a fantasy world map from scratch can be really tough if you don't have the skills of an artist. But, if you're looking for a quick way to bring your fantasy ideas to life on a map, several online map generators can help produce realistic maps to help you get started on worldbuilding.
Knowing the right tools and when to use them is key to making the most of fantasy map generator apps.
Azgaar
Azgaar is a free web app that helps fantasy writers, game masters, and cartographers create and edit fantasy maps. The web app has several templates users can start with while retaining the ability to edit and remove landmarks, features and entities to create the perfect fantasy map.
Where it stands out
Azgaar is lightweight and doesn't require installing software locally on your device. You can generate new maps with a click and enjoy full customization options.
The fantasy maps can be viewed in different layers, including:
Physical
Political
Provinces
Religions
Biomes
Populations
Donjon
Donjon's Fantasy World Generator lets users generate pre-custom fantasy worlds from visually appealing templates called multiverses. These creations can be previewed and fine-tuned in the editor before downloading as generated maps.
Made for fantasy map designers and worldbuilders, Donjon goes beyond map generation and offers several other tools to help develop fantasy worlds, including support for spells, character names, treasure maps, inns, and avatars.
Where it stands out
Donjon's built-in settings ensure your map's image file maintains a 2:1 aspect ratio (width to height), meaning the width must be exactly twice the height. This feature, absent in some map generator tools, is essential for compatibility with standard square/rectangular projection.
DeepAI
DeepAI uses machine learning models to transform your prompts into real fantasy maps. As an AI-based tool, DeepAI replaces the editable template interface in tools like Azgaar, letting users generate the completed map directly.
DeepAI can be used to create quick fantasy maps on the go. While the geography and landmark editing options are limited, users can choose to build maps for either speed or quality from standard or HD models.
Where it stands out
Unlike some AI tools, DeepAI lets you use the images from its fantasy map generator commercially without legal obligation. The maps are also free-source, meaning anyone in the public domain can use your generated fantasy world maps.
While free to use, DeepAI's premium Genius model lets map designers and creators generate better fantasy world maps with more artistic quality and detail.
Inkarnate
Inkarnate is a freemium fantasy world map builder for both beginners and professional fantasy map designers. To join Inkarnate, you have to create an account. Once you're signed up, you can get limited editability but still retain the core tools needed to create your fantasy world map.
You can create landmasses, automatically generate continents, and edit separate layers for free, but you'll need a paid subscription to access the more advanced features.
Incarnate's paid Pro features include access to commercial licenses, 8K exports, 500 custom assets, over 24,000 HD art assets, and features like trade routes, roads, and more.
Where it stands outs
Inkarnate has exceptional intuitive settings that help map designers build fantasy worlds with maximum customizability from one interface.
Advanced map design can often be difficult, even with AI-based tools. With the Inkarnate fantasy world generator, access to several art assets lets users speed up the creation of fantasy world maps.
Nortantis
Nortantis is a free, open-source fantasy map generator and editor designed to help users create a randomly generated world effortlessly and customize it to perfectly align with your story's setting.
Nortantis employs a straightforward tectonic plate simulation to generate diverse geographical features, including continents, islands, oceans, deserts, mountains, forests, regions, and cities—complete with customizable text labels. This intuitive system allows you to easily create rich, dynamic worlds.
Available on Windows and Ubuntu, Nortantis is an offline app for fantasy map creators to help bring fictional worlds to life.
Where it stands out
Nortantis has a few handy editing tools to help add landform features, political boundaries, and more. Nortantis also offers a variety of brush-based tools for crafting and customizing your map. These tools allow you to paint and shape oceans, lakes, landmasses, rivers, political regions, mountains, hills, forests, sand dunes, and cities, giving you full creative control over every detail of your world.
Although the interface isn't as intuitive as other options like Inkarnate, Nortantis is a lightweight fantasy world map generator that does the job.
Wrapping Up
While some of the fantasy map generators offer enough customizable options, map designers may need to export the generated images to photo editor apps to perfect them.
Which fantasy map generator do you have experience using? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Freelance writing is one of the most accessible ways to earn income online. However, standing out in a crowded market requires more than just basic writing talent.
Today, writers are needed who combine creativity with technical expertise, professionalism, and adaptability.
Check out our list of the top skill requirements to assess your suitability and candidate competitiveness for freelance writer jobs online.
Strong Writing and Editing Skills (Obviously)
Clear, engaging, and error-free writing is non-negotiable. Clients hire writers to communicate ideas effectively, whether for blog posts, marketing copy, or technical guides. If you still struggle with poor grammar, vague sentences, or awkward phrasing, you'll need to improve.
After finishing your draft, use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid to catch typos and punctuation errors. While editing, replace industry jargon with simpler phrases (unless writing for a specialized audience) and adapt your tone accordingly. For instance, a blog for teenagers needs a casual tone, while a white paper for executives should sound formal.
Research
Effective research involves looking out for the credibility of sources, such as .gov, .edu, or peer-reviewed journal articles, versus outdated or biased sources. Fact-checking and plagiarism testing are also included.
Clients often ask writers to cover unfamiliar topics. Strong research skills let you deliver accurate, well-supported content quickly. For instance, writing a blog about “African Literature books” requires understanding both African authored books and and book reading trends.
SEO Knowledge
With all digital content crawlable on search engines, it's never been more important to understand the language of these algorithms and the skills needed to optimize on-page content.
SEO proficiency is mandatory for content and blog writers to help them deliver content that not only provides value to visitors but also evolves alongside the ever-changing search engine landscape.
Specialty
A vastly underrated skill requirement to find freelance writing jobs online is the ability to write as a true specialist in one or more fields.
As a writer, you have an advantage if you have comprehensive knowledge of several topics. But, what truly sets you apart is the extent of your mastery in a specialized niche. For instance, a generalist content writer may specialize in the healthcare niche, while another freelancer focuses exclusively on creative writing.
Whichever your preferred discipline, standing out from the competition in demonstrable expertise can help you thrive as an online freelance writer.
Keen reading skills
Readers make the best writers, and so, reading is an indispensable skill for any serious writer. The ever changing landscape of writing and digital content means that self improvement is non-negotiable. There is no better teacher of writing, than reading.
Freelance writers looking to find jobs online must read perpetually, to keep their skills sharp, be familiar with better writing techniques and stay updated with industry knowledge.
Basic HTML and CSS
Writing jobs like technical writing and blogging are digital-based, meaning that articles, guides and documentation get to be published on websites and other online repositories,.
While coding isn't a requirement to land a writer job, many freelance writing jobs need personnel with knowledge of at least basic web page structure. Brushing up on your knowledge of elementary programming languages can give you this edge in more advanced writer roles.
CMS Proficiency
All freelance writers of web content must learn how to use Content Management Systems like WordPress, Squarespace, Joomla and Drupal.
With the architecture of the internet increasingly becoming accessible to non-coding users, proficiency with platforms like WordPress have become the minimum standard for active job roles in freelance writing.
Prompt Engineering
Whether or not writers like it, AI is here to stay. The sooner freelance writers adapt to the technology, the more better they can leverage it for enhanced productivity.
Using AI goes beyond feeding the bot with random instructions. Prompt engineering is the science of learning how to query the engine for the best possible results. The best writers use prompt engineering not as a replacement for the writing process, but as a tool to get better results.
Wrapping Up
Freelance writing offers freedom and flexibility, but success requires deliberate skill development.
Tell us about your experiences with professional writing services in the comments.
Freelance writing jobs abound, and, depending on your skill set, you might find yourself working anywhere across the broad fiction-nonfiction spectrum.
Several jobs let you earn by authoring creative, technical or informative pieces. Let’s explore them in detail.
Blog writing
Also known as content writing, web content's commercial and informational facets have melded deeply over the last few years. Now, content writers are just as often required to incorporate content marketing techniques as research and review products and services.
Writing blogs and articles in various niches, from education, tech, and finance to household retail and construction, helps client websites attract more visitors. As a blog writer, you're responsible for providing valuable information to online visitors while giving them more reasons to stay on the page.
Whatever industry you're writing in, blog writing is a good starting point for beginners. Over time, you can specialize in a specific niche.
Copywriting
Copywriting is any piece written to compel an audience to take an action. For this reason, good copywriting combines straightforward language with exceptional imaginative ability.
The best ads, sales pages, emails, or social media copies focus on the benefits of the product or service, writing persuasive content to help businesses increase their sales and boost conversions.
Unlike content writing, which isn't always related to advertisement, copywriting is always an ad. The marketing-heavy side is what differentiates this writing job from content writing and other writer jobs online.
Technical writing
Slightly linked to content writing, technical writing is a fraternal twin that involves providing information about complex and systemic topics in understandable ways. From writing manuals to guides or instructions, documentation, and whitepapers, technical writing prepares you to explore topics like software, engineering, or science.
Technical writers often work with companies that produce technical products. For example, you might write a user manual for a new software program.
Creative writing
Creative writing is one of the most dynamic freelance writing jobs online. It's for writers who purely use their imagination to churn out stories, poems, or scripts for books, screens, or other mediums such as social media.
Creative writing can help you earn as a ghostwriter online. You can also work with clients who need creative content in short stories and creative nonfiction for magazines or video scripts. This type of writing is ideal if you enjoy storytelling, as it allows you to express your ideas and emotions.
Academic Writing
Some students or professionals hire freelance writers to help them. As an academic writer, this is where you come in writing essays, research papers, or reports.
You need good research and writing skills for this job. Academic writers often work on complex topics and need to follow specific formatting and citation styles. This job is ideal if you have a strong academic background.
Journalism
Freelance journalists write news articles or features, report on events, and even interview people for newspapers, magazines, or online blogs.
Requiring good research and fact-checking skills, freelance journalism involves curating exclusive, informative content for a specific audience. Similar to content writing, freelance journalists have various niches, including tech, lifestyle, entertainment, health, and news.
Grant Writing
Nonprofits and organizations often need grants to fund their projects. Grant writers help them write proposals, explaining why they need the money.
This job requires good research and persuasive writing skills. Grant writing can be very rewarding, especially if you help organizations achieve their goals.
E-book writing
E-books are digital books that people read on devices. Freelance writers can write e-books for clients or sell their own.
The e-books themselves can be about any topic, from self-help to fiction. Writing an e-book requires time and effort, but it can be enriching. You can sell your e-books on platforms like Amazon or work with clients who need e-books for their businesses.
Having successfully avoided all direct and indirect spoilers, including the ones making the rounds on my X timeline, I'm glad to say that I've completed the first three episodes of the Prime Video blockbuster, The Wheel of Time.
A lot has certainly changed, and while we saw the extent of deviation from the source material right from the first episode back in season one, the screenwriters of season three look to have completely thrown the original plot out of the window. Now, this may sound like a negative pronouncement, but it really depends on how you see it.
After getting over the stark differences in the books and screenplay, there remains plenty to enjoy in the The Wheel of Time so far.
A stunning launch
The first episode of the new season of Amazon Prime's TV series launches viewers into a very satisfying showdown between Black Ajah ringleader Liandrin and Siuan Sanche, the Amyrlin Seat.
The dramatics are pretty convincing, and the delightful clash between the forces of light and the dark in the heart of Tar Valon is an indication that the great politicking has begun. From the very start, the glaring rift within the once-united fellowship of the Aes Sedai women's cult is deadly.
This scene opens up what will surely be a major plot thread this season. I mean, the Wheel of Time books are only some of the most politics-heavy fantasy reads you'll ever find. Expect more string-pulling and deft puppetering in the White Tower and beyond! The Aes Sedai aren't playing around.
Focusing on the t'averen
Season one of The Wheel of Time spent a few episodes teasing the identity of The Dragon Reborn. Now, we see the beginnings of Rand al'Thor's evolution from the innocent sheepherder to a symbol of national hope and a bane to the rising influence of the ancient Forsaken.
His madness ought to have set in, methinks. One would expect that, given how the story has accelerated, covering events in at least two books (The Dragon Reborn and The Shadow Rising) in the main series, Lews Therin would at least be showing some signs of going cuckoo.
Perrin remains the best-written ta'veren character in the screenplay despite being very differently developed from Robert Jordan's Perrin Aybara. In his arc, viewers can enjoy the promise of lots of action to follow at some point in The Wheel of Time season three.
Mat is the character with whom the scriptwriters seem unsure of what to do. Things are more about fully defining his relationship with his seer friend Min than his apparent character transformation. I'm curious to see what the shows make of Matrim Cauthon, who is arguably one of the finest characters in fantasy.
Elsewhere, Elayne Trakand (Ceara Coveney), Egwene al'Vere (Madeleine Madden), and Nynaeve al'Meara (Zoë Robins) are all brilliantly depicted, almost enough to make the fandom forget that they were initially written to be based on teenage characters.
The Forsaken gather
Again, the showrunners let the audience know what they think of the canon's original story, chucking plot threads out at will and replacing them with intriguing substitutes.
Moghedien's scenes show surprisingly much respect for one of the weakest Forsaken by strength in the One Power. Introducing Rahvin and Sammael this early into the season suggests that balefire might be used more than once in the latter stages of The Wheel of Time season three.
Regardless, seeing the Forsaken gather and scheme over what to do with The Dragon Reborn was quite exciting.
Tel'aran'rhiod explored
Although Perrin has been getting most of the dream world scenes due to his wolf brother status, it's interesting to see how the showrunners bring the rest of the cast into The Wheel of Time's dream world.
Lanfear and Lews Therin continue their meetings in the dream world while Egwene meets the Aiel Wise Ones, familiar from a preceding mutual encounter in Tel'aran'rhiod.
Tel'aran'rhiod is every bit as significant a setting for events in Randland as iconic venues like the White Tower, Falme, and soon-to-be Tear. I hope the show directors keep using this medium at the current rate. It's been impressive so far.
The woke army
While not in itself an awful deviation, the decision to make several character relationships gay arguably takes something out of some of the original characters.
Whether it's Moirane and Siuan, Allana Mosvani and her two warders, or Elayne and Aviendha, it's a different story when Rand doesn't have three women pining for him, and Thom Merrilin isn't there to temper Moiraine's fire.
The books themselves are as prudent as a nun's shift, with only one explicit sex scene through 14 books and several hundred thousand words. The crew at Prime Video continue to do as they please, glad to incorporate sexual content in ways the books were never written to resemble.
The original series presents Galad (played by Callum Kerr) and Gawyn (played by Luke Fetherston) of the royal house of Trakand as strong characters in their own right. While we've only seen a few scenes from both in season three, their depth is far from apparent.
Like Galad, Gawyn, and Mat, Elmindreda also falls into this category, seeming merely to drift around without any purpose crucial to major on-screen developments and revelations. Hopefully, more progress can be made to bring these crucial characters from the edge of the periphery.
New faces stand out
Shohreh Aghdashloo, an Oscar nominee, plays Elaida do Avriny a'Roihan. Through her, we immediately see Elaida's strength of character. Whether it's her voice or carriage, Elaida looks set to be one of the most compelling characters in The Wheel of Time season three.
Elsewhere, it's only a few minute's worth of screentime from Faile Bashere (Isabella Bucceri), but we see plenty of promise in the character.
Expectations to manage
The key to enjoying The Wheel of Time season three will be the ability of fans to manage expectations. If you've read the original 14-book series, you should make peace with your spirit that the plot will be stretched as far from the source material as possible.
Prime Video's production is less about faithful adaptation and more about exploring the possibilities in the richly detailed world of The Wheel of Time.
I waited with bated breath for Odéluwà's book, and while it didn't disappoint, it also didn't stun. You'll be disappointed if you're expecting the feeling of Purple Hibiscus or Americanah.
Without further ado, let's dissect Dream Count.
Chiamaka
Chiamaka is our dreamer, quintessential lover girl, and wanderer at heart. She is beautiful, rich, and very unrealistic. We see her stumble from one relationship to another and refuse to settle.
At the end of the day, I think she just doesn't want to accept that she isn't the marrying kind, and that's okay.
Zikora
Zikora, remember the short story, yes? We see her more fully represented here. She's our resident cynic; her story depicts the struggle mother- daughter relationships face and encourages us to be more gentle with them.
I can't say I blame Zikora; she was just a child, but her mother's poise is something to be studied. This, however, affects her love life; she constantly baits men, not necessarily because she loves them but in hopes that they'll marry her, as she's learned from society's dictates that you cannot be a successful woman unless you have a husband.
After having her child, she begins to mature and see the world through a mother's eyes, finally understanding her mother. Hers is a rather neat ending.
Omelogor
Omelogor, confident, independent, and corrupt, the Robin Hood herself, has an issue with tolerating men and can actually afford not to have them around.
Through her POV, we see women try to break free of societal cages and seek ways to survive in them, the corruption in our finance sector, and her well-intentioned plan to redistribute that money. Omelogor can come across as very masculine, but you can't carry all that responsibility and remain the same.
Nafissatou
Nafissatou, our ever-graceful and capable immigrant, was content, beautiful, and simple… But sadly, aside from her struggles, there wasn't much to her character.
The plot was the only reason that this book drew me back…. A book that talks only about people's love life? It wasn't until we got to Nafissatou and Omelogor that I actually started seeing something more than poorly chosen men.
Verdict
What I really liked about Dream Count is Adichie's tone. There's this gentleness in her writing—it's almost as if you can hear her voice.
Of course, the prose was well done, and overall, her message was that women should be free to determine what success means for them and not force and pressure themselves to conform to standards they don't understand or believe in. For these three things, this book was a hit for me.
With the sheer amount of books, authors and genres out there, one would be forgiven for preferring to stick to one, or a limited few.
Reading books outside of your comfort zone is like an adventure into the wilds. You never quite know what you might find. Just one sorry encounter can be enough to scar you for life, leaving you running back to the familiar comforts of your favourite genres and authors.
But, regardless of the risk, there's plenty to benefit from occasionally, or even regularly straying from reading books you typically enjoy.
To discover new interests
True, reading outside of the niches you trust and enjoy can be a bit of a risk. But, if you get lucky, you can discover entirely new interests that you'll appreciate every bit as much as your favourite genres and authors.
For instance, a stickler for Thrillers can find new love for African Literature or comics. Similarly, readers of horror can find the descriptive worldbuilding in fantasy appealing.
All you have to do is to take that first bold step outside of the genres you enjoy
To challenge your mind
Literature helps to develop mental processes, contributing not only to knowledge gain but also to readers' ability to analyze and understand real-world scenarios.
For instance, branching into African Literature challenges readers to see the Black narrative through unique lenses. This can help to foster a better understanding of Black culture and traditions while quelling the many myths about Africa and the Black diaspora.
To broaden your literary perspective
There's much to be gained from reading diverse genres and authors, as you're exposed to new cultures and viewpoints.
In doing so, you broaden your literary perspective and gain new insight that helps you not only see the world differently but the stories in it.
To break monotony
Let's be honest, reading the same things over again can get boring at some point, even if its your favourite author, or genre.
Like a balanced diet, healthy reading habits involve the consumption of not only one genre of literature, but several.
And, if you were worried, reading multiple genres doesn't have to impinge on your priority book picks. Just be aware that, like a patient suffering from nutritional deficiency, readers aloof to consuming books in other genres are only losing out.
For a better literary appreciation
At the centre of book snobbery and classism is a reader who's averse to exploring books outside of their comfort zone. Reading genres and authors apart from your favourites can help you avoid the pitfalls of book snobbery. This way, you can better appreciate diverse literary works.
Besides, it's hardly possible to properly critique a book, author or genre you haven't read. So, to help you better appreciate the style, themes and dynamics of other worlds, why not simply try them out?
Wrapping up
I know there are reader stans who swear by one author, or genre. It's also true that being a huge fan of one author or genre can make it hard for you to explore other works.
But, take this as an encouragement to take the leap!
Are you disposed to reading books outside of your comfort zone or not? Let us know in the comments!
The exciting world of Nigerian nightlife with The Other Side of Midnight by Olasunkanmi Ojulari, also known as Sunky O takes you behind the scenes of an industry often misunderstood, showing its true value and impact.
This book is for those who love the nightlife, and those with doubts about it.
Synopsis
The Other Side of Midnight explores Nigeria’s nightlife industry through the eyes of Sunky O, a key player in the scene. The book starts with his personal story, from a strict upbringing to becoming a nightlife expert. It then examines how nightlife has grown, its economic benefits, cultural influence, and the challenges it faces.
From the rise of Afrobeats to the famous Detty December, this work of nonfiction gives an inside look at how nightlife shapes Nigerian society.
Themes
The book breaks down the negative views of nightlife, showing it as a serious and rewarding career. It highlights the hard work and creativity behind the fun.
Nightlife is shown as a big part of Nigeria’s culture and economy. Events like Detty December bring in tourists, create jobs, and put Nigeria on the global map.
The book talks about how people in the industry work hard and adapt to changes, using technology and new ideas to keep things fresh.
In The Other Side of Midnight, we see that the nightlife is a place where people meet, make friends, and build connections that go beyond the party scene. The book also addresses problems like harassment and stress, offering ways to make nightlife safer and more welcoming for everyone.
Wrapping up
The Other Side of Midnight is an eye-opening book that changes how we think about nightlife. Sunky O shares his experiences and insights, showing the hard work and passion behind the scenes.
The Other Side of Midnight proves that nightlife is more than just fun—it’s a powerful part of culture, economy, and community.
