Column title: Plot Points & Ponderings
By Elikem M. Aflakpui
Book Review: Letters of Hope to My Younger Self
Authors: Aba Cato Andah, ZoeBaraka
Publishers: Triple A Press, South Carolina
Year of Publication: 2023
Reviewer: Elikem M. Aflakpui
I have a special connection with ‘Letters of Hope to My Younger Self’. This is because I was part of the conversation that birthed it. I’ve been blessed with several associations in my life but one of the most impactful ones is The Hope Tellers Group, comprising of inspirational ladies – whom I refer to as big sisters – accomplishing great things in different spheres of life, and me. Aba Cato Andah and ZoeBaraka are two of these big sisters. The other big sisters played instrumental roles in making this book happen; therefore, when I think of this book, I consider it to be a Hope Family – as we sometimes call ourselves – Project.
Acknowledging my personal connection to the book, it’s crucial to recognise that this association may introduce a potential bias in my review. Having been part of the conversation that gave birth to this remarkable work, I am inherently vested in its success.
However, it is my steadfast commitment to fairness that guides this evaluation. Furthermore, the content of the book itself demands a rigorous and objective assessment; one that transcends any inclination toward fanboying. This review will endeavour to provide a balanced critique, taking into account both my personal connection and the inherent merits of the work, in order to offer a comprehensive and insightful perspective on ‘Letters of Hope to My Younger Self’.
Navigating the foreword by Ben Dotsei Malor posed the initial challenge in crafting this review. I questioned the need for a review when Malor’s introduction so effectively encapsulates the book’s essence. As the pages unfolded, I found myself in harmonious agreement with Malor, pondering if there was more I could contribute.
While grappling with my own perceived limitations, one thing was clear in my mind: One could not overlook the sheer insight of this seasoned communications expert in his foreword. His words serve as the quintessential prelude, furnishing the reader with indispensable context and gracefully ushering them into an enriching journey through the text. It’s an introduction that is nothing short of perfect.
Delving into the book proper after the foreword, one cannot help but appreciate its ingenious design. The initial impression of ‘Letters of Hope to My Younger Self’ might lead one to expect a collection of heartfelt letters, each addressed to a younger iteration of the contributors.
Yet, as the pages turn, it swiftly becomes evident that the book defies such conventional expectations. Instead, it blossoms into a mosaic of meticulously curated and masterfully crafted stories. The authors’ shared passion for storytelling comes to the forefront, as they deftly employ a rich array of techniques. In essence, the letters serve as the exquisite icing atop these already compelling tales, elevating the book into a realm of its own.
Delving deeper into the book’s structure, the 39 chapters raise intriguing questions. Is there a symbolic link to the number of Old Testament books? The authors hint at this being merely the initial instalment in a Legacy Book Project series. Does this foretell a second volume with 27 chapters, following a certain pattern? The curiosity is palpable.
The chapters constitute a mosaic of narratives, each spotlighting a remarkable Ghanaian figure scattered across the global stage, who generously entrusted Cato Andah and ZoeBaraka with their stories. The diversity in the stories shared is twofold: not only do the contributors’ distinct life trajectories lend each narrative its unique hue, but the manner of storytelling itself further distinguishes them.
Some unfold as candid interviews, others stand as meticulously researched biographies, while a few emerge as intimate autobiographical accounts. This eclectic approach is one of the book’s brilliance. It’s a work that never wavers in its engagement, with chapters of varying lengths that ensure a steady flow of fresh experiences.
Furthermore, the book’s structure employs a distinctive form of storytelling known as non-linear storytelling with modular structure. Each chapter functions as a self-contained module that contributes to the overall narrative of hope.
Remarkably, readers can engage with the chapters in various sequences without sacrificing comprehension or coherence. This innovative approach offers a highly flexible reading experience, allowing readers to choose their own path through the narrative based on several factors such as familiarity with subject of the chapter, the gender of subject, the well-crafted chapter titles or even the reader’s mood. It’s a testament to the authors’ creative narrative design, providing a unique and engaging reading experience compared to traditional linear narratives.
Embedded within the central theme of hope, this book delves deeply into the vast spectrum of life itself. It maintains a striking equilibrium as it navigates through a myriad of life’s subjects, from triumphs and setbacks to matters of self-esteem, resilience and the complexities of human relationships.
Notably, it tackles even the weighty themes of loss, mortality and betrayal. It may seem audacious to assert but apart from the Bible, I’ve yet to encounter a single volume that offers such a comprehensive exploration of life’s myriad questions. While its extensive length may appear daunting, I believe it serves as an invaluable companion—a portable guide to be consulted whenever life poses its most pressing queries.
A highlighter in hand would be a wise companion for any reader, allowing them to mark the passages that resonate deeply and make personal notes for swift reference. Despite its title suggesting advice ‘To My Younger Self’, this book carries a message that resonates across all ages and stages of life, offering wisdom that remains relevant, timeless and universally applicable.
An unmistakable thread woven throughout the stories in the book is the profound theme of faith, belief and an unwavering trust in the divine. Nearly every contributor shares a deep connection with specific Bible verses that serve as steadfast anchors in their lives. It’s akin to the parable of the blind men touching different parts of an elephant, illustrating the diverse ways individuals relate to their faith.
Yet amid this diversity, a resounding message emerges: God is an indispensable and integral aspect of the human experience. These stories collectively affirm that regardless of the varied paths one walks the presence of God remains an essential cornerstone in the journey of life.
Beyond the captivating content, ‘Letters of Hope to My Younger Self’ shines in several remarkable facets.
Firstly, the book’s language is a testament to its accessibility; it is conveyed with a simplicity that welcomes readers of all ages – starting from 12 and above, in my estimation – into its narrative embrace.
Secondly, the introduction of each contributor is masterfully articulated, underscoring their rich qualifications and accomplishments. This not only adds depth to their stories, but serves as an inspiration for readers, illustrating the heights that can be achieved. Another noteworthy feature is the inclusion of two photos for each person—one from their youth and another more recent image, an addition that brings a visual dimension to their journeys.
Lastly, the use of footnotes to elucidate unfamiliar terms and provide context for uniquely Ghanaian references attests to the meticulousness of the authors. This ensures that readers grasp every nuance, leaving no room for ambiguity. These combined elements elevate the book, offering readers an enriching, multi-faceted experience. The book’s final gem, in my opinion, lies in the compilation of Governing Life Quotes at its conclusion.
These succinct, yet impactful snippets read like a collection of wise fortune cookie messages. With 39 carefully selected motivational quotes, the reader is provided with a wellspring of inspiration to draw from. It’s a treasure trove that could easily span a month – offering a fresh nugget of wisdom for each day, with a few extras in reserve for moments when an extra dose of motivation is needed.
An area where the book could potentially enhance its impact is through the organisation of chapters around sub-themes. Perhaps dividing the book into two to four sections, each focused on a specific aspect of life, could further enrich the reading experience. This approach would not only augment the already commendable non-linear storytelling with modular structure, but also provide readers with a more guided exploration of the diverse narratives. It would offer a clear roadmap, allowing for deeper immersion into the specific themes that resonate most profoundly with individual readers.
Also, while acknowledging the courage of each contributor in unveiling their personal narratives, I could not help but notice the brevity of some of the chapters. I recognise the delicate balance the authors had to strike, ensuring contributors felt comfortable sharing without undue pressure.
Yet, in a few instances, it seemed that some contributors may have been slightly reserved, perhaps holding back certain aspects of their stories. This, regrettably, prevented the full depth and richness of their experiences from fully emerging. Striking the right balance between respect for personal boundaries and encouraging a more comprehensive sharing could further amplify the impact of these powerful stories.
As I bring this review to a conclusion, I commend authors Cato Andah and ZoeBaraka for not only conceiving this remarkable project, but also for tirelessly dedicating their time and efforts to bring it to fruition. The magnitude of their accomplishment is nothing short of extraordinary, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them.
Equally deserving of praise are the contributors who, with incredible bravery, laid bare the intricacies of their lives, even the less-polished facets. It takes an exceptional degree of courage to share such a profound part of oneself in a book that will transcend generations. Each of them is a hero in their own right, and I hope they take immense pride in their contributions to this book’s enduring legacy.
Without a shadow of a doubt, I firmly believe that ‘Letters of Hope to My Younger Self’ holds the potential to profoundly impact the lives of its readers. Even in my academic engagement with it, I’ve been immensely enriched. I intend to revisit its pages with even greater attentiveness, seeking to absorb the invaluable insights it offers. It is with this conviction that I wholeheartedly endorse and recommend this book to everyone, confident in its capacity to leave an indelible mark on all who venture into its pages.
