LITERARY FLASHES

Writer WALE OKEDIRAN has reacted swiftly to the covid-19 pandemic by bringing out a string of quality, pertinent books that serve to conscientise the society, and the youth in particular, about the impact and ramifications of the virus. Okediran has been writing for decades now; here is a profile of the great man: Nigeria's  Wale Okediran  is easily one of Africa's most prolific writers of fiction. Think Meja Mwangi of Kenya, or David G Maillu - you get the idea. Or if you like, since Wale Okediran is also a qualified medical doctor, you might want to compare him with South Africa's Gomolemo Mokae, a revered medical doctor and creative writer. Oh, and by the way, Wale Okediran is also a formidable politician in his own right too!           But of course, here we are mainly concerned with Wale Okediran the award-winning quality writer, who has been publishing his works for decades. The Bibliography of the man can be see...

Victor Thorpe wrote and published a series of brilliant, well-plotted African thrillers. The inherent, spontaneous humour running through these works always stands out, almost undermining the sophisticated language, and polished erudition embedded in these enduring novels. Thorpe's books include The Worshippers, The Instrument, and Stone of Vengeance. Here is a biography of this most intriguing writer: Thorpe was in Calabar, Nigeria, in 1919. After completing his secondary education, he served in the Army as a signaler, clerical officer, method instructor and physical training instructor. He joined the British Council in Ibadan in 1948 and worked as a library assistance and clerk before being promoted to Administrative Assistant. He retired in 1975 and was recalled in 1977 to serve as Acting Librarian. He was the Nigerian Chairman of the Society of Metaphysicians, leader of the Efik community in Ibadan and President of the Calabar Welfare Association. He died in 1994. ...