Fine Boys by Eghosa Imasuen.
Book Review
Fine Boys (Confra) 🗣️ /fineeeeee boyssssssss/
:A Nigerian colloquialism referring to young men perceived as charismatic, popular, and stylish, often associated with university confraternities.
I’ve been eager to get my hands on this book ever since I first spotted it on Roving Heights back in late January. It was perfect timing too, as my birthday was around the corner and the book was on sale at a lesser price (who doesn’t love a good discount?). Unfortunately, due to some travel plans and the delivery time which didn’t fit into my schedule, I couldn't snag a physical copy. So imagine my surprise when it won the poll for our October book club pick! I finally got to read it, albeit as an ebook. Welp!
Set in the 1990s, Fine Boys dives deep into the chaotic and vibrant world of Nigerian university life during a time of political unrest and social upheaval (featuring Ewaen and his friends). The book explores the rise of confraternities, the challenges of friendship, and the complexities of Nigeria's educational and political systems. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. Imasuen’s writing is so descriptive and expressive, it feels like you're right there in the middle of it all, especially in the streets of Warri and the University of Benin (Uniben). I was especially struck by how he described life in Nigeria back then (can you even imagine things costing just fifty kobo or 10 naira, and yet students still complained?)
“Pure water don reach fifty kobo? Things are getting costlier,” Oluchi said.”
“And making change is getting more difficult for the sellers,” I added. “Remember in year one when a five naira note could get you a cigarette and a Fanta?”
“Yeah, round figure,” Fra said. “Now that combination is seven naira.”
Preppa nodded. “Maybe by the time that medical student comes back to Uniben a bottle of beer will be one hundred naira.”
“Impossible,” we shouted. “Never.”
Excerpt From Fine Boys
Coming into this with limited knowledge of Nigeria’s political history, the book was a real eye-opener. I found myself learning so much about how the country’s educational system linked with its broader political condition (ASUU strikes and allll).
The ability of the book to capture the slang, lifestyle, relatable humor and daily struggles of university students made the whole experience feel incredibly immersive.
“I sat through the class sweating and shivering at the same time. The eggs were peeking out of my yansh. Anyone who has seen a National Geographic special about meerkats, African prairie dogs, will have a graphic picture of what I am trying to explain, bobbing out, slipping back in.”
Excerpt From Fine Boys
Where Imasuen skillfully tackles the heavy subject of confraternities; a serious issue that plagued university campuses back then, leading to violence and a toxic environment for students. What hit even harder was realizing that this was the reality for so many young Nigerians at the time. It really makes you wonder whether things have improved or if these groups have just gone underground, morphing into other dangerous movements.
“This was not a university. It was a jungle. We were all jungle rats huddled around a candle, watching it flicker and burn out slowly.”
Excerpt From Fine Boys
Though the ending absolutely broke my heart, I have to say it was a necessary conclusion (I mean, Wilhelm just had to die so someone out here in the real world could be taught a lesson).
“I knew what he had just told me with his eyes. I heard him telling my friends and the policeman, “There is nothing we can do. He is dead.”
Excerpt From Fine Boys
The book also opened my eyes to the true chaos and challenges that students faced in those days. And it highlighted the impact of peer pressure, violence, and political instability on youths.
In the end, Fine Boys is more than just a story; it’s a powerful narrative that forces you to reflect on the effects of social pressure and the harsh realities of student life in the '90s and even now.
It’s well worth your time, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. 🤍
POV: I don’t know how JAMB selects their novels, but these are the types of novels students about to enter the university should read. I haven’t seen a good book since Last Days at Forcados High School and Independence for JAMB English read.
This was such a well written review and omg I absolutely loved Last Days at Forcados High School. That book was ahead of its time. Need to find it and reread it.
This was among the first Nigerian literatures I read and enjoyed. I'm somehow emotionally connected to it. I'll go read it again 😅