Lagos State government has approved the inclusion of ‘Black White’ in the state secondary school curriculum. Written by Ifelanwa Osundolire, an architect and real estate professional, Black White narrates the story of a young man’s journey from Ondo town in Nigeria to the United Kingdom in pursuit of higher education and greener pastures.
The book takes the readers on a journey of cultural conflict and personal discovery as the author/protagonist navigates the complexities of transitioning between two vastly different worlds. It highlights some of the hurdles faced by a Nigerian immigrant in a foreign country and the harsh realities of relocation.
The author, Osundolire, speaking on the book said: “It took me seven years to transform Black White from a scrapbook into the memoir it is today. From conception to completion, it is a testament to the inherent value of living an eventful life and telling one’s story for posterity.”
Expressing his gratitude for the approval he added: “I hope this book, which documents my first-hand experience studying and excelling in the UK serves as an inspiration to students, most especially gifted and indigent students who aspire for goals beyond their present circumstances”
As the title implies, Black White focuses less on racial discord and more on the disparities witnessed by a young man as he moves between different environments.
The book marks the third installment in Ifelanwa’s published works, with some of his earlier publications including: On A Lot of Things and Inside This Big Head. Ifelanwa is also the biographer for the 20-year business history of Nigeria’s capital market conglomerate – Meristem Securities Limited and the author of Fola Adeola: One Man, Many Dimensions – a commemorative book to celebrate the achievements of the co-founder of Guaranty Trust Bank.
