Born on a Tuesday: A Novel Paperback
by Elnathan John
Why Read This Book?
- •Authentic African bildungsroman that humanizes extremism and politics.
- •Praised for its sharp prose and emotional range—mixing harrowing violence with tender moments and humor .
- •Recognized with several awards: Betty Trask Prize, finalist for Nigeria Prize and Etisalat Prize
- •Offers a vivid, insider's look at the cultural, religious, and linguistic texture of northern Nigeria—an ideal pick for readers of postcolonial and global fiction.
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Written by Nigerian author Elnathan John, a lawyer-turned-writer and two-time Caine Prize finalist, this debut novel was first published on May 3, 2016, by Black Cat/Grove Press.
It has garnered major literary awards, including the Betty Trask Prize, and was shortlisted for the Nigeria Prize for Literature.
Set in northwestern Nigeria, the novel follows Dantala, a former almajiri street boy caught in election violence.
Fleeing after a disastrous incident, he finds refuge and mentorship under Sheikh Jamal in a Sokoto mosque. As he learns English, faith, and purpose, Dantala grapples with political and religious turbulence, loyalty conflicts, and even his first love himself torn between extremism and hope.
The story explores how youth are drawn into radicalism, yet remain capable of resilience and redemption
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