Author Okechukwu Nzelu - The Private Joys of Nnenna Maloney

Shelf Life

I could have definitely used 'The Private Joys of Nnenna Maloney' when I was a teenager. If, like me, you love books full of humour, tenderness and beautiful relationships, then you'll adore this fantastic debut novel by Okechukwu Nzelu. Nnenna is a 16-year-old growing up in Manchester and has so much grit as she navigates the ups and downs of womanhood alongside her mum, Joanie. Their relationship is certainly very special but Nnenna’s curiosity to learn more about her father, Maurice, who Joanie refuses to discuss, is tested, particularly as Nnenna learns more about her father and his Nigerian culture. I absolutely loved 'The Private Joys of Nnenna Maloney' and had so much fun chatting with Okechukwu about teenager anxiety, the powerful dynamics between all the characters in the book and why we tend to believe the doubts in our heads, especially when they are confirmed by those we love most. It’s no surprise that Okechukwu’s debut has been recommended by the i Paper, the Guardian, Metro and many others. Oh and by beloved authors such as Candice Carty-Williams, Andrew McMillian and Bernardine Evaristo. I really hope you love this episode! You can buy Okechukwu's book here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-private-joys-of-nnenna-maloney/okechukwu-nzelu/9780349701059