Tia’s world is upended when she overhears a whispered conversation between her terminally ill mother and her aunt, revealing a long-buried secret that sends her on a desperate quest for the truth. Meanwhile, 14-year-old Adunni – a spirited runaway determined to get an education – has finally found safety in Tia’s home in Lagos after fleeing her rural village of Ikati. But their fragile peace is shattered when a terrifying knock at the gate forces Tia to make an impossible choice: protect Adunni or uncover the truth her mother has hidden for nearly two decades. As Adunni fights for her voice to be heard – not just for herself but for the countless girls in her village – she begins to realise that speaking out could change everything.
Abi Daré once again delivers a breathtaking story that is both heart-wrenching and full of hope. Through Tia and Adunni’s intertwined journeys, the novel explores themes of sacrifice, secrecy, and the generational impact of silence. Adunni’s voice is vibrant, determined, and bursting with life – reminding readers of the power of education and the courage it takes to defy societal expectations. Daré’s writing is immersive, bringing the streets of Lagos and the struggles of Ikati’s young girls to life.
What makes And So I Roar truly unforgettable is its message about the importance of advocacy and change. Tia and Adunni represent two sides of the same fight – one uncovering the past, the other shaping the future – and their stories highlight the urgent need for women to stand together. Daré doesn’t shy away from portraying the harsh realities of gender inequality, but she also infuses the novel with warmth, humour, and moments of triumph. It’s a book that will leave readers deeply moved and inspired to listen to the voices that have long been silenced.
A beautifully written and empowering novel, And So I Roar is a story of courage, truth, and the unstoppable force of a girl determined to be heard.
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