The Fishermen

Great read. Loved it

Chigozie Obioma’s The Fishermen is a hauntingly beautiful novel that delves into fate, prophecy, and family bonds. Narrated by Benjamin, the youngest of four brothers, the story follows the tragic unraveling of their once-close-knit family after a madman prophesies that one brother will die at the hands of another. From that moment, a chain of devastating events begins, testing the strength of brotherhood and the limits of destiny.

One of the standout aspects of this book for me was the portrayal of the parents. The mother was a force of nature—dramatic, funny, impulsive, and fiercely protective of her children. She brought both warmth and heartbreak to the story. The father, on the other hand, was a pillar of strength, leading his family with vision and hard work, determined to ensure his sons would grow into great men. I deeply admired his role.

Beyond the tragedy, what truly moved me was the love and sacrifices between the brothers. I’m always drawn to stories of sibling affection, and this novel delivered that in a profoundly emotional way. The intensity of their bond—both in joy and in sorrow—made the story even more powerful.

Obioma’s storytelling is nothing short of masterful. His prose is rich, poetic, and deeply layered with meaning. The novel carried me through waves of absolute joy, sadness, and even terror, leaving a lasting impression.

If you enjoy deeply moving narratives about family, fate, and love, The Fishermen is a must-read. It’s a novel that stays with you long after you turn the last page

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