HUGE thanks to Amistad, as well as to NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Where the Children Take Us.

In Where the Children Take Us, Obiajulu’s daughter, Zain E. Asher, tells of her mother’s harrowing youth in war-torn Africa, where she survived genocide, famine, and poverty. This is followed by a difficult fight to raise four children as a young, widowed, immigrant in South London. Yet, with Obiajulu's relentless support, her children exceeded all expectations! This book was absolutely riveting to read and is an incredibly moving tribute to the author’s mother!! Yes, some parts were heartbreaking, but others were absolutely joyful. I think Where the Children Take Us is my favorite memoir, ever. Honestly, I didn't want to put it down!!

#WheretheChildrenTakeUs #NetGalley

Put this memoir in the “THIS IS WHY WE READ” column. Gorgeous. Breathtaking. Inspiring. Nigerian-born Zain Asher tells the story of her parents and her own life which is incredible. I loved the story about her mom’s rules as the author was in the last two years of high school and cried happy tears when the author shared her accomplishments with her mom. The Nigerian culture is beautiful. I’m so glad I read this book and thank Amistad Press for the opportunity to do so. Read this one. Have your book club read it. Make Nigerian food and eat and talk and enjoy.

Where the Children Take Us is a lovely tribute to the author’s mother. Left as a widow in 1988, with three children and one on the way, Obiajulu was a force to reckon with. She worked long hours and demanded much from her children. She often struggled with making her children obey, but always kept up on discipline and direction. Parents like her create successful offspring and that’s exactly what she did.
Hats off to her for never giving up.

This book tells the story of a family shattered by tragedy, and of a mother’s sacrifices for the sake of her children and their success. The events and suffering that Obiajulu experienced are unimaginable, but even more remarkable is the strength and determination she demonstrates despite each struggle and hardship. This story is one of triumph in the face of adversity and will inspire you to keep fighting hard.

“We are nothing if not fighters. We fight for what we want from life, we fight the forces that stand in our way, and most of all, we fight for our families.”