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No Be From Hia
A homecoming tale of a family brought together by migration and torn apart by tragedy and secrets. In a search for identity, love and acceptance two ordinary girls travel from London to Lusaka to Lagos in order to save their family and discover their destiny.
Meet the Ayomides and the Kombes, Zambian-Nigerian-Jamaican powerhouse families brought together during the post-colonial migration of the 1960's to the UK - and later separated by death, divorce and betrayal. Scattered between London, Lusaka, and Lagos, only the new generation can save this family.
Maggie Ayomide and Bupe Kombe are cousins on either side of the world who couldn't be more different. Zambian-Nigerian and Zambian-Jamaican, both yearn for their disbanded family to reunite. When Bupe leaves Brixton to go to secondary school in Zambia, she brings light and disorder to Maggie's world. However, the girls are hindered by dark family secrets such as the mysterious death of their late grandmother, and Maggie's missing Nigerian father.
From the blazing streets of Brixton riots to multi-party elections in Zambia, glitzy Independence Day celebrations, and adventurous nightclubs in Lagos, this heartwarming story breathes life into the modern-day result of postcolonial Africa and 20th Century migration as it follows two ordinary girls trying to find their identity and reunite their family.
Meet the Ayomides and the Kombes, Zambian-Nigerian-Jamaican powerhouse families brought together during the post-colonial migration of the 1960's to the UK - and later separated by death, divorce and betrayal. Scattered between London, Lusaka, and Lagos, only the new generation can save this family.
Maggie Ayomide and Bupe Kombe are cousins on either side of the world who couldn't be more different. Zambian-Nigerian and Zambian-Jamaican, both yearn for their disbanded family to reunite. When Bupe leaves Brixton to go to secondary school in Zambia, she brings light and disorder to Maggie's world. However, the girls are hindered by dark family secrets such as the mysterious death of their late grandmother, and Maggie's missing Nigerian father.
From the blazing streets of Brixton riots to multi-party elections in Zambia, glitzy Independence Day celebrations, and adventurous nightclubs in Lagos, this heartwarming story breathes life into the modern-day result of postcolonial Africa and 20th Century migration as it follows two ordinary girls trying to find their identity and reunite their family.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2019
23 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 27, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I was successfully transported to the UK, Zambia , Jamaica and Nigeria. The book is written in vivid lyricism and free flowing style.
A moving story spanning three generations, of how , family secrets, betrayal, and tragedy of the 1960s manifest and impact the lives of the new generation up to 2017.
'No Be From Hia ' demonstrated to me that no country, nor family is perfect, some will stay and others will leave. Home is where the heart is. Families and countries wake up each morning and strive for the illusive perfection.
The yearning of of young Maggie for her Nigerian father, and that of Bupe and Maggie for their grandfather is further proof that , children have the tendency to admire the absent and often guilty parent.
I liked how Kalulu Banda re tells the story of Africa as a functional home worthy to go back to.
A moving story spanning three generations, of how , family secrets, betrayal, and tragedy of the 1960s manifest and impact the lives of the new generation up to 2017.
'No Be From Hia ' demonstrated to me that no country, nor family is perfect, some will stay and others will leave. Home is where the heart is. Families and countries wake up each morning and strive for the illusive perfection.
The yearning of of young Maggie for her Nigerian father, and that of Bupe and Maggie for their grandfather is further proof that , children have the tendency to admire the absent and often guilty parent.
I liked how Kalulu Banda re tells the story of Africa as a functional home worthy to go back to.
February 8, 2020
The past few months, I have spent more time reading fictional books. I have enjoyed reading African fiction in particular especially books by Nigerian authors. This is because they are relatable (I am from Zambia). Lo and behold, I came across Natasha's book and I have enjoyed it as it brings together "scenes" (should I refer to them as such or there's a better word?) in Zambia, the UK, Nigeria and Jamaica. It is clear Natasha did her research as she put together this book and I'd recommend it to anyone who loves reading African literature..
December 27, 2019
No Be From Hia Is AMirror
Finally a book that gives the post-colonial social experience of Zambians a language and illustrates the complex layers of identity. The beauty, the trauma and the restoration of the lost collective memory– The only thing I can fault, which is actually a merit, is that I would have loved to see more of this lost world that is fading from or memory. "No Be From Hia" by Natasha Omokhodion- Kalulu Banda
Finally a book that gives the post-colonial social experience of Zambians a language and illustrates the complex layers of identity. The beauty, the trauma and the restoration of the lost collective memory– The only thing I can fault, which is actually a merit, is that I would have loved to see more of this lost world that is fading from or memory. "No Be From Hia" by Natasha Omokhodion- Kalulu Banda
March 15, 2020
Set in Zambia, Nigeria, and the UK, this is a moving debut novel of two families that spans multiple generations and explores issues of identity and the legacy of colonialism. Most chapters alternate between the perspectives of Bupe Kombe (UK) and Maggie Ayomide (Zambia). Maggie and Bupe reunite, unexpectedly, in Nigeria and explore the events that led them both to be there. Ms. Omokhodion has wonderful descriptions of place as well as an excellent ear for dialogue and regional accents.
July 13, 2020
I started reading this book in the early afternoon nd only put it down when I finished it later on that evening. I couldn't put it down! It brought so many memories and jolted parts of my past. Amazing storyline that is almost factual, you get completely engrossed. Brilliant book. I will certainly read it over and over again.
March 2, 2022
No Be From HIA, "Not From Here"
So beautifully written! A powerful storyline, and the journey of self discovery.
I realize I am not the target audience for this story and am so thankful to have had the opportunity to read it.
Thank you to Rising Action Publication Co for my gifted copy! I look forward to reading more by this wonderful author.
So beautifully written! A powerful storyline, and the journey of self discovery.
I realize I am not the target audience for this story and am so thankful to have had the opportunity to read it.
Thank you to Rising Action Publication Co for my gifted copy! I look forward to reading more by this wonderful author.
July 1, 2021
This is a stunning, subtle and mature first novel. I rarely re-read a novel but I am this one and it's even better second time round. It shines with vivid imagery. The characters are alive and the descriptions so evocative. It opens the eyes to Zambian perspectives on colonialism and the richness of Zambian culture.
Having grown up in Zambia myself...if on the other side of the colonial (though well meaning missionary) fence, everything is so familiar. I love the descriptions of boarding school life; Lubwa/Chinsali; family relationships; contrasts with UK and Zambia, and the many positives of life in Zambia. Thank you so much for this wonderful good read. I'm desperate for the next! I also want copies of this one to give to many family and friends. When will it be available again?
Having grown up in Zambia myself...if on the other side of the colonial (though well meaning missionary) fence, everything is so familiar. I love the descriptions of boarding school life; Lubwa/Chinsali; family relationships; contrasts with UK and Zambia, and the many positives of life in Zambia. Thank you so much for this wonderful good read. I'm desperate for the next! I also want copies of this one to give to many family and friends. When will it be available again?
January 18, 2022
A part of me feels bad for not liking this book as much as I should have.
It started a bit too slow for me and some parts of the book felt forced, the author was trying to merge too many ideas in some parts and it came off confusing. The story picks up after Bupe and Maggie meet so that's a plus.
Grandma Margaret's story does not exactly develop the way I would have liked it to but I'll live.
It started a bit too slow for me and some parts of the book felt forced, the author was trying to merge too many ideas in some parts and it came off confusing. The story picks up after Bupe and Maggie meet so that's a plus.
Grandma Margaret's story does not exactly develop the way I would have liked it to but I'll live.
March 20, 2020
This book handles identity and universal human truths with the reverence and a spark of novelty that was missing in many books of its kind. The bites of history make it a very relevant book for Zambians and beyond. Highly recommend.
March 13, 2020
Couldn't put it down. Just had to keep reading to find out what happened next.
So easy to read. Well done Natasha.
So easy to read. Well done Natasha.
December 2, 2021
I didn't read "No Be From Hia", I practically inhaled it!!
Firstly, this book should be recommended reading. In Zambia, where the author weaves historical events into the story, events we all heard of growing up from parents and over the years got devoid of that human experience. Natasha set the scene of pre-independence Zambia in a way that felt familiar and very personal.
Secondy, this book should also be recommended reading outside of Zambia, because of the sociological insight it provides into immigrant families, culture and language.
I absolutely loved this book. It left me spent and empty but also full because...how else could the story have "ended"?
Firstly, this book should be recommended reading. In Zambia, where the author weaves historical events into the story, events we all heard of growing up from parents and over the years got devoid of that human experience. Natasha set the scene of pre-independence Zambia in a way that felt familiar and very personal.
Secondy, this book should also be recommended reading outside of Zambia, because of the sociological insight it provides into immigrant families, culture and language.
I absolutely loved this book. It left me spent and empty but also full because...how else could the story have "ended"?
September 26, 2020
edit: I’m amending my initial review.
some books have incredible staying power, in that you continue to think about them well after you’ve closed and shelved the book. this is one of these books.
a wonderful portrait of post independence zambia, and the different paths that the children of independence took. touching characters moving through life in the shadow of familial trauma. there’s discussion to be had about the cultural hybridity of the two main characters. five stars.
some books have incredible staying power, in that you continue to think about them well after you’ve closed and shelved the book. this is one of these books.
a wonderful portrait of post independence zambia, and the different paths that the children of independence took. touching characters moving through life in the shadow of familial trauma. there’s discussion to be had about the cultural hybridity of the two main characters. five stars.
March 31, 2021
A great read.The descriptions in the book so vivid and relatable like going through ones childhood and remembering incidents and events.Its diversity in characters, setting and culture makes it an international seller.I was a bit unquenched on some incidents but many things made up for those.Well done Natasha!Iam proud to be Zambian after reading this.
July 10, 2020
I enjoyed the book and it inspired me to read more about the freedom fight. Simple story line with unresolved family issues and how a mistake can cause regret lasting for generations. Leisurely and enjoyable read. And reference to Rambo plastic bags;)
March 1, 2020
The whole time that I have had this book, my leisure reading time has been filled with obstacles... assignment deadlines, pressure to study for module exams, submissions, work stress and just pure life fluff... for some reason my ideal mode of relaxation is to read a book! Even in the middle of exam prep study, I drop the technical stuff to read something else more entertaining!
You and 'no be from hia' have held my hand through these last long weeks. This is a beautiful read. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Well done to you and for making it so relatable! I am sad not to have to carry it in my bag, have it on my desk or in the car, just in case I need to read to breathe....😂😂😂
It has been a great companion! I cannot wait for your next publication! Well done Ms. Tash x.
You and 'no be from hia' have held my hand through these last long weeks. This is a beautiful read. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Well done to you and for making it so relatable! I am sad not to have to carry it in my bag, have it on my desk or in the car, just in case I need to read to breathe....😂😂😂
It has been a great companion! I cannot wait for your next publication! Well done Ms. Tash x.
November 3, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Its an easy read with a good amount of wit. I enjoyed Banda's descriptive writing - which really draws the reader into her imagination. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of characters and locations - which, as a Zambian - brought on many memories of childhood and made the book very relatable. The narration of the book offers several perspectives - that of the Zambian looking at itself and looking outside of itself; and that of the foreigner looking into Zambia. I found the various perspectives added greater levels of interest. The book definitely brought on the feels - it made me chuckle, it made me hopeful and anxious, it made me sad and teary, relieved and joyful. That to me is the measure of a good book. I highly recommend it.
February 19, 2020
One of the best books I've read so far. The liveliness of the characters makes you understand them a who le lot more. The way the story was narrated is simply impressive. A great African read I was surely glad to indulge in. Natasha is creative. She told a touching story that I must say was surely worth my time. The flow is on point and as the story unravels there's simply nothing much to say other than this book being definitely one of a kind!! I rocommend it for you if you haven't read it! You should read it!! No Be From Hia!!!! Keep up the good work Natasha!!!
March 15, 2020
Thank you Natasha for telling this amazing Story! Just finished the book and really enjoyed it...I could relate to many situations as I've been raised in a multicultural family and environements...Your book helped me to strengthen what I can now call my "no be from Hia" Identity! It has encouraged me to even embrace more my family history,
my roots...
Definitely looking forward your next book😊
my roots...
Definitely looking forward your next book😊
January 30, 2020
5 stars
I started this book today and couldn’t put it down until I finished it. This book tells a story and shares different elements of the Zambian , Nigerian and Jamaican culture.
Natasha well done
I started this book today and couldn’t put it down until I finished it. This book tells a story and shares different elements of the Zambian , Nigerian and Jamaican culture.
Natasha well done
February 5, 2020
Excellent cultural fusion
Certainly an interesting. Would recommend. It's a very interesting view on Zambianness and multiculturalism. I love the exploration of family dynamics and interpersonal relationships in the midst of finding self.
Certainly an interesting. Would recommend. It's a very interesting view on Zambianness and multiculturalism. I love the exploration of family dynamics and interpersonal relationships in the midst of finding self.
July 20, 2020
I liked it! Although I found the ending a bit rushed. It may have done with a few more chapters/pages. Would have loved to learn even more about Grandma Margaret.
October 20, 2024
Actually read her newest one which is not yet on Goodreads. 'Even if the stars should fall'. About Zambia's struggle for independence. I recommend!
May 12, 2020
I really enjoyed the many stories told throughout this book from the different perspectives of the character's. The way it is written makes the words come to life and gives you a great insight to the struggles of identity, family and love.
November 29, 2021
A coming of age story about two cousins raised in Zambia and England respectively. I found the ending a bit unrealistic but otherwise enjoyed the story
April 30, 2021
In short: Really enjoyed this lovely read with very interesting, well-developed characters and an unusual plot (yay too for the 3 locations, but esp 🇿🇲!). Also couldn't really be *completely* unbiased, for various reasons -- but I know you'll enjoy this book, too.
🥳🕺🏿
🥳🕺🏿
January 9, 2022
This has to be one of the best books I've ever read by a Zambian author. I couldn't put it down, it was that good. As a history enthusiast, I enjoyed being transported to pre-independence and postcolonial Zambia. I felt like I was right there, in the 60s, The chinsali sun beaming on my forehead. I saw myself in some of the characters and could easily visualise most of the book.Writing style, the characters, the ending- all of it was worth the read and I am bummed that this 'journey ' of a book is over.
January 30, 2022
I read this book within 48 hours.
All I will say is I didn't expect to see myself crying in the last chapters.
So many issues were addressed that were close to home.
*Edit*
My 3rd read of the year.
Maggie has grown up wanting to find her dad and have a relationship with him. He left when she was very young after her mother won full custody of her.
Now a grown up and married, her marriage is beginning to get strained.
Her dad finally reaches out to her but her mum tells her not to meet him or she will never speak to her again. What happens when she flies off to Nigeria to reunite with him and her paternal grandparents? Will it be all she ever dreamed of?
Her cousin Bupe has been in love with Jerome since she was young. But after getting into trouble, her parents put her on a plane to Zambia.
After completing high school, she returns to London to fulfil the promise they made to each other - "Together forever." What happens when Jerome refuses to man up while Bupe tries to make ends meet and discovers she is pregnant?
I couldn't put this book down until I was done with it
Definitely recommend.
5/5.
I hope to read more books by her.
All I will say is I didn't expect to see myself crying in the last chapters.
So many issues were addressed that were close to home.
*Edit*
My 3rd read of the year.
Maggie has grown up wanting to find her dad and have a relationship with him. He left when she was very young after her mother won full custody of her.
Now a grown up and married, her marriage is beginning to get strained.
Her dad finally reaches out to her but her mum tells her not to meet him or she will never speak to her again. What happens when she flies off to Nigeria to reunite with him and her paternal grandparents? Will it be all she ever dreamed of?
Her cousin Bupe has been in love with Jerome since she was young. But after getting into trouble, her parents put her on a plane to Zambia.
After completing high school, she returns to London to fulfil the promise they made to each other - "Together forever." What happens when Jerome refuses to man up while Bupe tries to make ends meet and discovers she is pregnant?
I couldn't put this book down until I was done with it
Definitely recommend.
5/5.
I hope to read more books by her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2021
An interesting exploration of contemporary identity, shaped by both family history and Zambia’s history, dating back to the era of Zambia’s freedom fighters. The story is told through alternating points of view, which ultimately tie together the family fabric by the end of the book.
March 18, 2020
Absolutely loved reading this masterpiece! An intertwined story of 2 young girls who grow up in different countries and connect as teenagers in Lusaka. Well told, clear and well researched.
Totally enjoyed it!
Totally enjoyed it!
December 14, 2021
Why didn’t I read this book earlier? I’m glad I finally read this book and I love that it’s based in four countries my favorite was Zambia because everything is just so relatable, right down to the secondary school I attended (that was awesome). Such an amazing book and a beautiful reminder of family and home ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews