Told in three parts, Olawu is an inspiring coming of age story, an immersive introduction to 19th Century East Africa, and a BookLife Prize Quarter Finalist.
Olawu is the eldest daughter of Kanakam’s only physician. Her strong will and compassionate nature are a constant source of conflict in her village. In Kanakam there are many rules for girls, and those who break them are often broken. Despite Kanakam’s restrictions against girls reading, writing, or working a trade, her father teaches her in secret. Inspired by his skill and shielded by his status, Olawu learns eagerly at his side, hoping to one day follow in his footsteps.
Olawu’s world is upended when the Dikebe tribe takes over Kanakam. The Dikebe tribe has conquered dozens of villages west of the river as they wage a violent war against the Oloko tribe to the east. When tragedy strikes, Olawu and her family are left vulnerable to the harsh realities of Kanakam, including the forced marriage ritual known as the Choosing. As the eldest daughter, Olawu’s duty is to protect her family. But her father instilled in her a greater purpose, and the Choosing is no better than slavery.
Driven to desperation, she seeks help from Dikembe, the son of the tribal warlord who has taken over her village. She hopes he will repay her father’s past kindness and shield her family, but hope is a fragile thing, and time is running out.
Set in a time and
place unburdened
by the devastation
of colonialism,
Olawu is a
refreshing tale
about a brave girl
with a bold dream.
Praise for Olawu:
Warrior. Healer. Daughter.
Ready to dive into this action-packed adventure? Olawu is available in Paperback and Hardcover at most major online book outlets in the US and abroad, including Amazon and Walmart. Use this UNIVERSAL BOOK LINK for some of your favorite retailers, or check out Where To Find Olawu by P. J. Leigh to buy it from your favorite indie bookshop or borrow it from your local library!
Latest Updates:
- 18 Delightful Ways Olawu Compares to Fruit
I’m going to let you in on a little secret. I’m a little silly. Growing up, my family often referred to me as “The Peanut Gallery.” I got hold of a Disney joke book and the rest was history. Continue reading →
- Learn More about Olawu and Author P. J. Leigh
An interview about me, my debut novel Olawu, what inspired the story, and some of my advice to aspiring writers. Continue reading →
- Olawu is a 2023 BookLife Prize Quarterfinalist!
Olawu scored very well on the BookLife Prize Critic Report (earning a 9.5 out of 10) and secured a spot as a Quarterfinalist in the 2023 BookLife Prize for Fiction. The prize is sponsored by Publisher’s Weekly and is dedicated to recognizing exemplary works by indie and hybrid authors. Continue reading →