In this edition, we’re exploring the book House of Rust by Khadija Abdalla Bajaber.
This book is a mesmerizing debut novel that blends magical realism, Swahili folklore, and coming-of-age adventure into a richly layered tale set in Mombasa, Kenya.

Now, the story follows Aisha, a Hadrami girl whose fisherman father goes missing at sea. Determined to rescue him, she sets sail on a magical boat made of bones, accompanied by a talking scholar’s cat. Along the way, she encounters sea monsters, political crows, wise goats, and other mystical beings that challenge her courage and identity.

Let’s allow our colleague John Agu of our partner station, Albarka Radio Bauchi, to bring us the review.