CALABAR: Ouida Books, an internationally acclaimed award-winning publishing firm in Lagos, Nigeria, has officially launched the highly recommend and anticipated historic novel, “Bone River”.
The culturally enriching book laced with urban Calabar fantasy was written by Nigerian author Nkeruwem Albert.
A creative novelist, who took time to comprehensively research on the untold timeless cultural heritage, historic facts and treasures in unique celebration of his Efik speaking people of Calabar, Nigeria’s first capital city.
The spectacular and expository book launch was held on Thursday at Ouida House, Ikeja, Lagos.
The event was graced by journalists, writers, cultural critics, booksellers, and literary enthusiasts in a vibrant celebration of storytelling, performance, and community.
The book Bone River, is a richly imaginative tale set in Calabar, weaving spiritual realism with emotional depth.
It explores belonging, memory, grief, and ancestral ties through a deeply Nigerian lens, expanding the possibilities of African fantasy while staying rooted in cultural authenticity.
The very educative and culturally enlightening event was moderated by Amyn Bawa-Allah, the host of “Something Bookish” podcast. It featured an engaging lineup of readings, conversations, and performances.
There was very eloquent
Introduction by Sharon Adeoye Ajanlekoko, live readings and author conversation with Nkeruwem Albert.
A commendable short
drama performance inspired by “Bone River”, was staged by Isoken Arude and Peculiar Adunni.
The drama which drew great applause from the audience open the stage for the proud Calabar-born author Nkereuwm Albert to speak to the audience extensively on his vision, and storytelling processes and developmental stages of the book.
It was an intensive interactive session with the author on craft, culture, and imagination, with questions and answers.
At the end, the Director of Quida Books, and Chief host of the event, Lola Shoneyin led her staff and the guests to the cutting of the cake to celebrate the book’s official unveiling.
In their known tradition, there was a frame presentation to the author. It was followed by book signing session, where attendees received personalized copies from the author,
photo session with the author, guests, and participants. The exciting event was climaxed with a vote of thanks by the Ouida Books Director.
Guests described the launch as immersive, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant, a fitting celebration for a novel that honors both memory and storytelling.
Ouida Books announced that “Bone River” is now available for purchase at Ouida Bookstore, Lagos, and via Ouida Books digital platforms.
Ouida, 34 Ajanaku Street, Off Salvation Road, Opebi, Lagos., Online purchase could be made through them
Instagram or X: @ouida_lagos.
The author, Nkereuwm Albert was born in Lagos. He spent his early adult years in Calabar. His short fiction and essays have featured in publications such as Omenana, Fusion Fragment, FIYAH Magazine, Will This Be Problem and more. Albert has been awarded the “, Dream Foundry Prize for Emerging Writers.
When he is not writing, he works as a dentist. The Bone River is his first novel.
