The Clothes of Nakedness

by Benjamin Kwakye

A compelling portrait of relations between the rich and poor in urban Ghana.

Genres: Ghana, Africa, Fiction, African Literature, Novels

216 pages, Paperback

First published May 19, 1998

Reviews

[BernieMck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I delved into this book, while on a quest, to read more books by African authors. I enjoyed this story because it had a good plot, that was unlike any other that I have run across. I enjoyed meeting and getting to know most of the characters and hearing their stories. I absolutely hated the shady Mystic Mysterious, whose goal was to use and abuse the good folks he ran across, and turn their lives upside down, to benefit himself. I recommend this book. It kept me flipping pages, so I could see, what would happen next. Reading it was a pleasure.

[Nana Kesewaa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty good read with a plot about the everyday people living in Nima, Accra. I think Kwakye does a good job telling these stories of the lives of the main characters, their struggles, hopes and love lives. Though the end is tragic, I pray Kojo Ntim remains the glimpse of hope in the story and some how overcomes Mystique Mysterious.

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

http://maryokekereviews.blogspot.com....

[Kwadwo · Rating 4 out of 5]

. Oh my God. I got the chills so many times toward the end of this book. It completely blew my mind. It managed to surpass my high expectations AND be nothing at all like I expected.If I sound stunningly inarticulate at times in this review, I can't help it. My mind is completely fried....
I'got to start exploring African literature literature my first bite of the apple and i want more ...(no offense Eve)😂

[Mtendere Horea · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I read more books by African literates this book delves deep into the complexities of life from a man that has everything but has nothing materialistically. The power of corruption and seduction can never be undermined, we live in a generation/society where the fast, extravagant, and quick are worshiped. Struggle and had work are shamed in the name of living extravagant lives wether it be a taxi driver or a managing director of a bank.


Bukari’s story alongside all those present in the strongly signify it is important to know and remember it is how we live and not by what we have where our lives will be judged upon. Exposure is great but it always comes at a cost when chasing unrealistic highs that only satisfy temporary pleasures. Money, sex, drugs do not give the ultimate fulfillment. It is how you treat people and how you are treated where the nakedness of the soul and heart are uncovered. Dignity requires spiritual strength, wisdom, understanding, power and self-control to overcome over indulgence.

[Must Read Africa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabriel Bukari is an out of work taxi driver. He meets Mystique Mysterious, a mediary who connects him to his next employer for a cut of daily sales.
The enslavement process begins for Bukari and for Mystique, another opportunity to expand his operation in the slums of Nima where people are desperate for jobs.

Abraham Maslow's hierarchical theory of needs postulates those at the bottom of the pyramid can only aspire for the basic necessities of life leaving them as prey for those few actualised at the top of the pyramid.
Benjamin Kwakye expertly and simply demystifies the classism in the capital city of Accra where greed and corruption is fast eroding the cultural values of its people.

[Naomi Nortey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great app

[Kolliins Perfect]

Want the full in pdf

[Paloma · Rating 5 out of 5]

So worth it, although very sad and real

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow - I kept waiting for a happy ending. But if this novel teaches you something it is that happy endings are rare once a cycle of thoughtlessness, waste and neglect begin to roll. I did enjoy the book, despite it being so depressing.