A very impressive writer
17 October 2008
Not only is it a great book, but I think you have to admire Sade Adeniran's determination and commintment to telling this story and getting it out there. It's a very refreshing read.

Great read
17 October 2008
You know a book is good when you're driving and keep sneaking peeks at the traffic lights and you pray for snarl ups. Amazing, I loved Lola and marveled at her grit.

A move away from easy answers
17 October 2008
Sade Adeniran's book is a well written, in equal turns funny, uncomfortable, sad and insightful debut novel. It is a novel that publishers should have been lining up to publish. Readers of varied age groups will enjoy following Lola on her various (mis)adventures and being inspired by her resilience, innocence and unpredicability. This is a refreshing, if long, novel that is both serious literature and an enjoyable read.

A compelling story
17 October 2008
This is an amazing debut novel. I was gripped from the beginning and found myself wondering about the fate of Lola long after I had finished reading the book, so convincing was the characterisation.

A Facinating Story, a gamut of emotions
18 October 2008
I started reading this book while travelling from London to Australia and was amazed how it seemed to dramatically increase my reading speed. I think what really happened was that i got through what I did because i didn't put it down. It sharpened up my imagination and made me feel like I was there, part of the story, like a fly on the wall with HD vision. Definitely worth a read wherever your'e from.

Moving story
21 October 2008
Imagine this is a brilliant novel set in Nigeria. I am not much of a reader, but found I couldn't put it down till I finished it. Having read it I now what to know what happens next. Very sad, happy, funny and easy read.

Best Book of the year!
21 October 2008
Imagine this: being taken away from all that you cherish, all that you love and being thrust into a landscape that is frightening, bizarre and so incredibly different from all that you know. This is exactly what happens to nine year old Lola Ogunwole. Born in London to Nigerian parents, her world is torn apart when her mother abandons Lola and her brother Adebola. They find themselves in a foster home until their father comes to claim them. Lola thinks that her troubles are over; but they have just begun. Rather than lose both his children, he takes them from London to Nigeria to live with family members. Lola and Adebola are separated from each other for the first time in their lives. Adebola goes to live with an uncle in the small town of Lagos and Lola finds herself living with an aunt in Idogun. Idogun is unlike anywhere that Lola has lived before. Poverty is rampant in the village and there is no electricity, no indoor toilets, and no conveniences. Only a hard life and a world so removed from civilization that Lola feels like an outcast. Her one constant, her brother Adebola, removed from her, Lola feels more alone than ever. Her family does not make it easy for her either. For no reason that Lola can think of, her aunt hates her. She is made to walk miles and miles every morning for water. She has to learn to adapt herself to a life of hardship; a life of difficulty and a father that seems to be cutting himself off from her. But like all things, time passes and hardships increase. Lola starts to change and mature. No longer is she the spoiled little girl from London. Lola starts becoming a woman. But when she is tested, when something so earth shattering happens that Lola does not speak for days, something inside her changes. She knows that she must fight to get where she wants, otherwise her heart and her spirit will perish…. My brief summary of the plot does not do the scope of this novel justice. Told in diary format, we are really reading Lola’s journal; her inner thoughts, her inner demons are poured out onto the page for all of us to read. Because of her words, I find myself changed forever. I can’t express how good, how utterly amazing, this novel is. The fact that this is Adeniran’s first novel is astounding. There is so much depth here, so much feeling and emotion that it is hard to believe I’m not reading the work of a seasoned writer. Imagine This is pure, unadulterated storytelling and the power of it is incredible. Because it’s told in a diary format, we see into Lola’s head and her thoughts a lot more clearly than if the novel was told in first person or third person. Indeed, we get to read her private wishes, dreams and aspirations for the future. After a while I forgot I was reading a novel and could picture Lola scratching away in her diary. I felt I could reach out and touch her. Few authors are able to render a character so completely. Lola becomes not just a character on a page or words on paper. She lives and breathes alongside you as you read her story. I can honestly say I was blown away. Few books have affected me as strongly as Imagine This and I know that my spirit carries a piece of Lola with me where ever I go now. I am haunted by her; by the sound of her voice in my head, her words on the page it’s hard to believe that Lola does not really exist. It’s hard to believe that I can’t reach out and touch her. This is the power of Adeniran’s amazing first novel. Imagine This is not just a story, not just a novel. It’s about having the courage to face obstacles head on. It’s about finding the strength to survive and succeed that you didn’t know you had inside of you. But most of all, Imagine This is about the triumph of the heart. If you read one good book this summer, make sure that it is Imagine This. Your heart will thank you for it.

Good story
22 October 2008
reminds me of some one I used to know

I just love this book I can relate
22 October 2008
I finished it in March 2008 for the first time, and must have read it twice since then.It still makes me laugh and cry just thinking about it. Lola could have been me, I just love this book I can relate.

Draws out your emotions
23 October 2008
When I read this book I phoned up my friends and relatives and insisted they had to read it. It really draws out the emotions and you are taken on a roller coaster of feelings as you follow Lola's story. The fact that this is Sade's first book just demonstrates her potential The Commonwealth nomination was throughly deserved

A fantastic read
24 October 2008
I could not put the book down, a great read which tugs at your heartstrings. Highly recommended

Down to Earth
27 October 2008
The Novel is very compelling. It shows that Sade is in deep touch with her Nigerian root. I once wrote about her in my Blogsite when Imagine This was shortlisted for the Commonwealth books final.

The best moments have stayed with me
30 October 2008
I am a writer and I am jealous! The worm scene, the goat's eyes and the funeral have replayed in my mind, bringing me smiles or tears again and again. This story is raw and has a beautiful purity. It's certainly a book to be talked about. Not only is Lola tenacious, the writer is too, and hers is an inspiring achievement and all the more relevant in the hurdle-filled times the world now faces. Sade's achieved her dream with little help and a lot of belief.

OMG FANTASTIC!!!!!!
04 November 2008
Simple yet brilliantly told story. Too many talking points but my favourite scenes include the Grandfather's funeral when she says she'd never go hungry if a relative died every week, but she just might run out of relatives. Classic line. Another favourite was the worm scene, it had me squirming for a while. I love this book, I think everyone should read it.

True life coming alive on the page
04 November 2008
I was completely rivetted by this novel and was so touched that I was in tears as I lived through Lola's trials and anguish. I cheered as she triumphed in the face of adversity and became this strong proud woman. This is a story that anyone can identify with on so many levels. It is a mark of a good book that every time you read it, you are able to get something new out of it, and see the story from another perspective. This is the hallmark of a classic. Fantastic!

Inspiring!
04 November 2008
A wonderful debut. Lola's story is an inspiring one, and it is as inspiring as the story behind the publication and success of the novel! Well done Shade!

OUTSTANDING
05 November 2008
A GREAT DEBUT BOOK. IM WAITING FOR HER NEXT NOVEL. THIS GIRL IS ONE TO WATCH FOR THE FUTURE. LOLAS STORY JUST PULLS AT YOUR HEART.

OUTSTANDING
05 November 2008
IF THIS IS HER DEBUT I REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO HER NEXT NOVEL. THIS GIRL IS ONE TO WATCH FOR THE FUTURE. LOLA JUST PULLS AT YOUR HEART STRINGS AND MAKE ME PROUD TO BE A WOMAN.

Hard to put down
05 November 2008
I usually read non fiction but this was so real I was hooked from the first page.A great style from the author,very easy to read with fantastic characters.I would love to see this as a film.

A non-fiction reader converted!
05 November 2008
I hardly read fiction, but this one had me hooked . Sade's ability to suck you into Lola's life is incredible - it was so real, vivid, and well written! I kept thinking "oh God, please help this child!!" and then I would realise, it was only fiction....A great first book!

I wont to know more about Lola
06 November 2008
I woul like to thank Sade for writing this book. You can't imagine how close I feel to Lola and how this book has helped me to become into terms with my own past.

truly gripping
13 November 2008
An amazing story about a little girl who faces all the trials of life. Little Lola definitely grows on you with her silliness, humour and naivety you can't help but like the little one. It makes you wonder how she would have grown into adulthood.

F.A.B
17 November 2008
A fabulous story written with passion, you can tell that the author really believed in what she was writing about. She took me on a journey to a place I've never been. I read the book in 2 days becasue I couldn't bare to put it down. Lola's story really moved me and I can't wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book

Fantabulous
17 November 2008
Blew me away. Creative writing at its best. Sade wherever you found your inspiration fetch some more...I can't wait for the next one!

Wonderful
18 November 2008
An absolutely brilliant read. It was a living breathing story for me, every word and line alive with imagine, picture and sound. I laughed and cried... and cried and laughed. I couldn't put it down and yet scarely wanted it to finsh. I recommended it to number of my friends and look forward to the sequel.

Brilliant mixture of Culture and Creativity.
18 November 2008
This book brings to life a great mixture of cultural details and creative story writing.Quite an easy book to read and the storyline flows nicely, which would appeal to audience of various ages and cultural diversity. When is the next book coming out......?

Fabulous
18 November 2008
This was a great read - so good that another 8 of my friends got it as a gift from me - already looking forward to her 2nd Novel

Couldn't put it down
18 November 2008
Fantastic read - was only sad that it had to end!

Brilliant Read
18 November 2008
Great characters, great story. Difficult to put down.

LucyH
19 November 2008
This is a wonderful story! It was full of surprises. Lola's character comes across so strongly in the book. It has some sad moments but mainly it is funny and totally entertaining! A joy to read and I can't wait to read more from Sade.

An Awesome Read
19 November 2008
This book is an awesome read. Absolute page turner! The story of Lola's journey is extremely inspirational, I am waiting for the very talented author to write any book. 100% Recommended!

Powerful, compelling story
19 November 2008
This book is unputdownable! Really strong story, written in a straightforward style.

Wao, A must Read
19 November 2008
Great story, brilliant imagination and one of the best fiction stories I've ever read. I could not put down the book until I finished reading it. Sade put a lot of thoughts and emotion into it that will make you wonder if she was telling her personal story.

Could Not Put it Down
19 November 2008
I was very impressed with this story as it is the story of so many Lola's that I know. I have looked for the book on my side but with no luck. I'd like to spread the word!! I've recommended it to so many friends and can only hope that the author keeps writing.

Quite an Eye Opener!
19 November 2008
This book does much to reveal the chasm which exists between being brought up in the developed world in contrast with the third world but more to the point the challenges for children who are forced to adjust to such a difficult transition. Nevertheless, it still managed to do it with quite a bit of humour and wit which is a credit to the author for making such a difficult subject for some such an enjoyable read.

Very touching
21 November 2008
If, like me, you have lived the life described in this book, you will understand the pain of such a vivid reminder. You will also celebrate the joy of finally hearing your own voice in every chapter of Sade's book. The last book I read that had such a profound impact on me was Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes but unlike McCourt's books, Imagine This was set in a society that has barely changed. I eagerly await her next book.

lively and thought provoking
21 November 2008
Excellent read

Rivetting read
21 November 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and eagerly await Sade's next story.

Absolutely AWESOME!!!
22 November 2008
Imagine This is an entertaining and thought-provoking novel, written in a unique and suitable format. This journal style story takes you on a rollercoaster journey with such vivid imagery and subtle, but very fitting, humour. It was definitely a page-turner. The contrast between the stark reality of Lola’s life, and the glimmer of hope that she sees and represents, are portrayed in an incredible fashion. Imagine This puts forward aspects of culture and tradition which people of all ages and backgrounds in some way will be able to relate to, and even more importantly learn from. Lola’s positive attitude is inspirational; her naivety amusing; and the injustice she goes through, sometimes infuriating. Whilst reading Imagine This it is easily forgotten that Lola’s story is fiction, because of the amazing characterisation and portrayal of a story which represents so much reality. This book will make you laugh out loud, cringe and maybe even shed some tears. It will generate anger and frustration whilst simultaneously building hope and expectation as you anticipate what will happen next. The underlying positive messages this story portrays are invaluable and I would truly recommend this book to all.

A humble read
24 November 2008
A difficult book to put down especially as the characters are so life-like they become part of your world! Can't wait for a possible sequel.....

Could not put it down!
24 November 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed this book... it was 2am on a week day, i had to get up for work the next day and I just could not stop reading, when I finished I wanted more from this author. Passed it onto my sister who had the same reaction. Excellent story and so real, the connection was so great you felt you were right there going through everything with Lola. Definitely recommended..... can't wait for the next book from this very talented lady...

talented writer
24 November 2008
Proud to represent such a talented and determined writer. An extraordinary debut.

Excellent debut
24 November 2008
This is an excellent debut novel from Sade Adeniran, which has just won the Best First Book Award (Africa Region) in the 2008 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize. It’s the story of Lola, who is nine-years-old when the novel opens in 1977. She and her brother, Adebola, are taken away from England to live in their father’s homeland of Nigeria, before the authorities can take the children away from him. The two youngsters have already been abandoned by the mother that Lola never knew, and yet their father does not allow them to stay together as a family in Nigeria – instead, he’s sent them off to live with various relatives, saying that ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. Although Lola has been to the family village of Idogun before, she’s still disorientated, as she does not know the language, and she has so many relatives. Unfortunately, Lola’s relatives don’t seem to have heard of the saying so dear to their father’s heart, as both children struggle to thrive, with Lola even having difficulty trying to get enough to eat. Going to school should provide her with some respite, but Lola has passed an exam that means that she can bypass the local primary and go straight to the secondary school. Since she’s the youngest pupil there, and small for her age, she suffers from bullying, which is dished out by the teachers as well as the kids… Lola gets resigned to the fact that she won’t get the response she wants from her father from her letters to him. Unfortunately for Lola, her father takes on a new ‘wife’ who can’t stand her, and so she is shunted from one relative to another as she grows up. The only one who really seems nice to her is Uncle N, but there may be a reason why his wife is so hostile to her too… Added to this are the machinations of Nigerian politics, which were very bloody at this time, with various coups. Although Lola does not take much notice of politics, she can’t help but be a gawping bystander as she gets caught up in the strife. Added to this are all the usual woes of growing up, with the raging hormones of the teenage years, and so you have a potent recipe for all the distress that embroils Lola’s life. But even she is taken aback when a friend takes her to task for being so sorry for herself… Indeed, reading Imagine This can be difficult, as the circumstances of Lola’s life never seem to be short of horrendous, with the beacon of hope shining much less brightly for Lola, than say, even Celie in A Color Purple. Like the latter, Imagine This is an epistolary novel, although Lola chooses to write to the more secular Jupiter in her journals (and therefore never has Celie’s crisis of faith). While the letters in the novel play an important role, it’s usually because they have been ignored, rather than intercepted, as in Alice Walker’s novel. Whatever Sade Adeniran’s inspiration may be, she has done an admirable job of bringing Lola’s world alive, although, like Lola, you may have some difficulty trying to keep track of how some of the main characters are related to her. There is currently a vogue for ‘Misery Lit’ in publishing – real life stories of wretchedness that are so lucrative that they have inspired hoaxes, but Sade Adeniran does not play to this genre, even though Lola’s story is at times completely overwhelming with sorrow. There’s no great sense of redemption either – Sade Adeniran just tells the story as it is, with great verisimilitude. It’s astounding that Sade Adeniran had to self-publish this novel, as it’s not as if she doesn’t have a track record – she has previously had a play commissioned by Radio 4. There are a few minor typographical errors that a professional editor would have picked up, and I did get a bit irritated every time Lola wrote ‘imagine that’ in her journal (which, I’ve read, may possibly be the title of the next novel featuring Lola). However, these are very small quibbles taken in the context of Sade Adeniran’s tremendous achievement – Imagine This is the most professional self-published novel that I’ve ever seen. I can’t stay that I really enjoyed the novel much due to the subject matter, but I do suspect that its power will stay with me for a long time.

Imagine this!
25 November 2008
LIke the title, Imagine this just takes you into a plane of imagination. The writer's narratives successfully brings to fore the past and present in way that the reader becomes part of the story. I think this is a book everyone should read.

Creative writing
25 November 2008
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and eagerly await the next release from this highly skilled writer. Well done Sade.

Great book
26 November 2008
Not the type of book i usually read, (Fight Club, Philip K Dick novels etc) but found this a very enjoyable read. You live it as well as read it.

Imagine This
30 November 2008
I really enjoyed this story, not my usual type, but I look forward to Sade's next book. A very talented writer.

Imagine This
01 December 2008
I loved this book. The voice of the main character is so believable, esp as you are taken through her life and developments. The writer has managed to develop her writing sytle as the character herself develops making the child Lola as credible as the more mature Lola. I also loved the way major events in African history are subltly chronicaled alongside the unfolding of Lola's tale. I have recommended this book to my book club as there is just so much to discuss!

Can You Imagine it
01 December 2008
Truly a fantastic story, I took this book on holiday with me,thinking it would take me a few days to read. Big mistake. I could not put it down ,to the point of having to get out of bed after tossing and turning, wondering what was going happen next. I was totally devastated when i realised i had finished it on the first day. truly a fantastic read, have recomended this book to many, and bought it as gifts, Well done Sade ! So looking forward to your next book, PLEASE MAKE IT SOON.

A great first book
05 December 2008
As a reader who has quite eclectic tastes I was keen to read this book, and I was not disappointed. The author really takes you there, you Imagine This, being in the middle of the hot Nigerian village that Lola is unexpectedly transported to, and all the events she experiences and endures. I read it in just a few days as I simply could not wait to see how Lola ended up. Now I'm waiting for the sequel!

The story felt so really
08 December 2008
I'm not a wordsmith, so I can only echo the previous comments. Imagine This is an amazing debut novel. I bought a copy on the strong recommendation of a very good friend, needless to say I wasn't disappointed. It's not an easy book to read and I found myself crying through most of it, however Lola was also a very funny character. This was the saving grace of the book, without the flashes of humour this could easily have read like a misery memoir, which I hate. Sade, keenly observes a culture I'm so familiar with that the story could easily have been mine. Bravo to Ms. Adeniran, I like everyone else want to know what happens to Lola in later life. When is the next book coming out?

An Excellent Debut
09 December 2008
I found myself transported into the world of Lola Ogunwole and on occasion couldn't help but feel her pain and despair. If emotional impact is the measure by which you judge the success of any book, this no doubt qualifies as an excellent debut.

Imagine This – An Amazing Book
11 December 2008
IMAGINE THIS A talented writer whose talent was yet to shine, She put her pen to the paper and there it was her debut book, She fought her way through to show the world her creation, She came across many obstacles just like Lola in the book, Her determination and perseverance finally paid off, Take all the time you want, put your pen to the paper again and produce another IMAGINE THIS. Sade, this is an absolute amazing novel. Lola’s experience was truly inspirational. Every experience and every emotion was very well articulated, it was like I was watching a movie. I very much enjoyed it and waiting for the next IMAGINE THIS.

BRILLIANT
11 December 2008
I loved this book. Everyone should read it.

Gripping
13 December 2008
I was utterly gripped by Imagine This. It was written in such a way that I felt forever hopeful that Lola was to meet happy ending. Perhaps this is why it only took the duration of the Summer holidays to read it to find out if she meets this end. In the depths of Lola's despair I was not brought down to a state of gloom. Instead it came appearent how simple appreciations of human kindness are heart-warming and essential to ones sense of self-being.

Loved it
14 December 2008
I really felt part of the story, and really hoped there was going to be a happy ending, but found it very emotional. I love reading about how other cultures live, and this was beautifully written.

A page turner
15 December 2008
this book was awsome!....gripping!....once i started i couldn't put it down!.....i strongly recommend it! the writer has a truly exeptional talent for writing....i cannot wait for a follow-up!!

Fantastic
15 December 2008
This book's an absolute page-turner! Lola's journey is extremely touching! I hope this fantastic book will be made into a film!

great book
15 December 2008
This book is a fantastic read, i really hope it is available world wide

Fantastic Read
15 December 2008
This is an excellent book. Very much recommended.

Page Turner!!!!
15 December 2008
I would most definately recommend this book!!! Great Read!!!

Brilliant Book
15 December 2008
Brilliant Book!!! Cant wait for the Autor to write another one as gripping as this one!!!

Truly A WOW Book
15 December 2008
I am not a big reader but as it was your book I made an extra effort to read the book. Sade, it was a fantastic story and a very moving one too. The small well thought details of Lola’s life made the book an interesting and an emotional read, this element I feel was the icing on the cake for me. Well done Sade, I really hope you break all barriers with this book and I wish you all the best for your next novel.

Fabulous
15 December 2008
Imagine this is a truly inspirational story. Once started I just could not stop turning the pages. It is an emotional journey which many can relate to. I hope soon we will see another part to Imagine this so that this well written and encapsulating journey can continue once more....

Very Entertaining...
15 December 2008
This novel was very entertaining as well as extremely gripping. It definitely filled my journeys to work with emotion and excitement... I look forward to a sequel.

Top Notch
15 December 2008
I'm not much of a reader... but after my sisters recommendation I was forced to read this book. And boy am I glad I heard about it. Not only was it entertaining, but the subtle humour and the underlying messages were inspirational. Well done Sade on a job well done! Keep up the good work... I await part 2!

Imagine This....
15 December 2008
A story about a young girl caught up in many of lifes troubles. Live her life as you turn the pages. A truly realistic depiction of an amazingly crafted fictional character!!!

Good Read
16 December 2008
Imagine this was a very satisfying read. Started off as a time filler, but I quickly realised how hard it was to put down. Much recommended!

Good Stuff...
16 December 2008
What I liked most about this book were the many small things which could be discussed, debated and laughed about with others. The worm incident is definitely one of those most talked about...

Very Well Written
16 December 2008
As a teacher I really hope that my school will consider the teaching of this book in English lessons. There is so much from it the kids can learn and so many underlying messages which can be analysed and discussed. It is also very well written. Well done to Sade on an amazing piece of work!

Great Expectations...
16 December 2008
After the first Imagine This I have great expectations for a second book. I hope it will be as entertaining and exciting as the first. This story truly had me gripped!

Epic journey
16 December 2008
The portrayal of Lola's journey is this book is incredible!..The writer has really shown the depth of her African roots, as a Nigerian there aren't many times where i can connect with the cultural aspect of the book. As i read through the pages i could feel Adeniran's imagination unravel parrel with Lola's journey and her adventure. The determination the writer has portrayed through the character is a true inspiration. A definite page-turner and i honestly recommend it to all who wish to read an incredible inspiring novel.

Touching
16 December 2008
The challanges that Lola went through in this book is an inspiration and as a reader i can empathise with this truly amazing character. The portrayal of hope the writer paints with subtle humour is creative mix. Sade's unique style evolves with this suitable format.The postive messages the novel roars out to me and the 'Voyage of Discovery' is the highlight to which i have recommended the book to every person i know.

Incredible Book
16 December 2008
Lola's journey is very moving. The imagination of the Autor is incredible!!! I hope to see this book into a film very soon!

Great Read
16 December 2008
Imagine This was a great read. Well written and very well thought out. Much Recommended!!

you can never discribe how wonderful somthing is for one
17 December 2008
I first met Sade i had no idea who she was but i could see something in her eyes that i could never describe ONly i could say there was a whole world in her eyes that i could read things that maybe you can only understand what i mean when you read her books. i enjoyed Imagine this so much that i read it in 2 days i couldn't stop. I really thank her for it and wish her the best she is one of the people i look at and like to learn many things from. if this book is made into a film it will be huge i would like everyone to read it if possible thank you Sade for the wonderful experience

Amazing Book
18 December 2008
What can I say about this book apart from a definite read. This book truly captures the imagination of 8 year old Lola. In parts it will make you cry and laugh. You feel emotionally bonded with Lola and her innocence. Can't wait to read the second part.

Good book to read
18 December 2008
I will definitely advise anyone to read this book.Its a great story line and lola is a great role..Enjoy reading it.Thanks

Great Book
20 December 2008
This is a great book. Have heard a lot about it and it was worth the read. Will await another part...

A GREAT READ
20 December 2008
This is definitely one of those few books that you can't put down once you've started!!!! I recommend it to all!!! Its a great story with great characters!! if you haven't already done so...go out and buy it!!!

A grower
22 December 2008
This book certainly grew on me. I didn't initially warm to the child's perspective, but as I read on I became accustomed to the style and it made sense. Enjoyed the read.

Fantastic!
23 December 2008
This is a great book. I admire Lola's determination and look forward to Sade's next book.

Outstanding!
23 December 2008
When my friend Tonia gave me a copy of this book i put it away for weeks and one day while cleaning i saw it and decided to read it i must say i did not drop it until i finished reading. I have read it many times after, it is a great book and i am spreading the word to every one around. Well done Sade!!!

Great Book
23 December 2008
I felt I was in Lagos when I was reading this book. The detail was incredible. It kept me engrossed whilst on my holiday in France, a very enlightening story.

Brilliant book
25 December 2008
This book is an inspiratation. Lola's courage and strength is what I took away from this story. Bravo to Sade

Great read
25 December 2008
This was a great book I highly recommend it.

Definitely worth a read
03 January 2009
Excellent read!! Full of emotions. Even bought my mother-in-law a copy for Xmas.

..worth a second read
30 January 2009
With tons of 'must read' books piling up by my bedside, I found myself picking up 'Imagine This' for the second time in six months and I am glad I did. This book takes you on a journey into your childhood in a manner that few books can. You hear, not the controlled voice of a matured writer but the innocent voice of a child which transforms which age. When you listen to the emotions of the characters (you can only do this if you silence the social and cultural issues that the book addresses you well), you sometimes wonder if the writer will ever be this plain again. I can only hope that her next book is written in the voice of her characters.

Great Read ...
30 January 2009
Absolutely fabulous first book. Hard to beleive it is your first. Will soo recommend it to people and have already bought it as presents for people. Well done Sade.

Beyond Wonderful
31 January 2009
Imagine this: being taken away from all that you cherish, all that you love and being thrust into a landscape that is frightening, bizarre and so incredibly different from all that you know. This is exactly what happens to nine year old Lola Ogunwole. Born in London to Nigerian parents, her world is torn apart when her mother abandons Lola and her brother Adebola. They find themselves in a foster home until their father comes to claim them. Lola thinks that her troubles are over; but they have just begun. Rather than lose both his children, he takes them from London to Nigeria to live with family members. Lola and Adebola are separated from each other for the first time in their lives. Adebola goes to live with an uncle in the small town of Lagos and Lola finds herself living with an aunt in Idogun. Idogun is unlike anywhere that Lola has lived before. Poverty is rampant in the village and there is no electricity, no indoor toilets, and no conveniences. Only a hard life and a world so removed from civilization that Lola feels like an outcast. Her one constant, her brother Adebola, removed from her, Lola feels more alone than ever. Her family does not make it easy for her either. For no reason that Lola can think of, her aunt hates her. She is made to walk miles and miles every morning for water. She has to learn to adapt herself to a life of hardship; a life of difficulty and a father that seems to be cutting himself off from her. But like all things, time passes and hardships increase. Lola starts to change and mature. No longer is she the spoiled little girl from London. Lola starts becoming a woman. But when she is tested, when something so earth shattering happens that Lola does not speak for days, something inside her changes. She knows that she must fight to get where she wants, otherwise her heart and her spirit will perish…. My brief summary of the plot does not do the scope of this novel justice. Told in diary format, we are really reading Lola’s journal; her inner thoughts, her inner demons are poured out onto the page for all of us to read. Because of her words, I find myself changed forever. I can’t express how good, how utterly amazing, this novel is. The fact that this is Adeniran’s first novel is astounding. There is so much depth here, so much feeling and emotion that it is hard to believe I’m not reading the work of a seasoned writer. Imagine This is pure, unadulterated storytelling and the power of it is incredible. Because it’s told in a diary format, we see into Lola’s head and her thoughts a lot more clearly than if the novel was told in first person or third person. Indeed, we get to read her private wishes, dreams and aspirations for the future. After a while I forgot I was reading a novel and could picture Lola scratching away in her diary. I felt I could reach out and touch her. Few authors are able to render a character so completely. Lola becomes not just a character on a page or words on paper. She lives and breathes alongside you as you read her story. I can honestly say I was blown away. Few books have affected me as strongly as Imagine This and I know that my spirit carries a piece of Lola with me where ever I go now. I am haunted by her; by the sound of her voice in my head, her words on the page it’s hard to believe that Lola does not really exist. It’s hard to believe that I can’t reach out and touch her. This is the power of Adeniran’s amazing first novel. Imagine This is not just a story, not just a novel. It’s about having the courage to face obstacles head on. It’s about finding the strength to survive and succeed that you didn’t know you had inside of you. But most of all, Imagine This is about the triumph of the heart. If you read one good book this summer, make sure that it is Imagine This. Your heart will thank you for it.

Captivating
01 February 2009
A beautiful, breathtaking debut from Adeniran. I was gripped by this book from the moment I began reading it and was captivated by the heartfelt, emotive storyline and moved by the characters' experiences. Very well written: I look forward to Adeniran's next book with great anticipation. Recommended.

Fantastic
02 February 2009
This was a great read.

stunning read
02 February 2009
read it in one go - could not let it go!

Moving
02 February 2009
This book was wodnerful from start to finish. It drew you in a made you and kept you page turning to see what new twist life would bring for Lola (the central character). I particular loved the way Lola's voice changed so believably as time progressed and she developed in age and experience. I trully can't believe that this is the author's first book; thoroughly recommended!

Worth a 2nd, 3rd & 4th read
03 February 2009
The story is simply told, the language is plain. Imagine This is the story of unimaginable horror and deprivation. Despite this, the author manages to convey Lola's sense of humour and the resilience of the human spirit. It really is a great read and I've recommended it to so many.

Reality
03 February 2009
Wow Reality expressed in true form!

pitch-perfect characterisation
03 February 2009
pitch-perfect characterisation, suberb read

Inspiring
06 February 2009
To be taken into the world of Lola and feel her experience is truly a gift that few authors have. Thank you

Very real
06 February 2009
Life imitating art or is it art imitating life. Amazing debut.

Gripping!
07 February 2009
For some reason this story touched me in a very emotional way. While in truth this is not without precedent, I do not recall this ever happening with a debutant writer and certainly not one who is self published. A truly outstanding effort.

Excellent Read
09 February 2009
An excellent read and await the next one from this talented author.

One of the best ....
10 February 2009
I've added this to one of my best reads .. It made me laugh and cry... I loved the way its written like a diary and takes you on a fantastic journey of this young girl.. Looking forward to reading more by this Author. SM x

A must read
10 February 2009
Fab Fab Fab. A must read. I still can't believe this is the author's first book. Good luck.

film yet
10 February 2009
A very powerful, thought proking emotional rollercoaster. Can't wait to see it as a film. Sequel soon? A x

What a determination
10 February 2009
I love those people who have such passion and determination to make a difference. Excellent read. I laughed, then I laughed, then I cried then I went oh my god, then I laughed again. Thank you Sade Adeniran for the great read!! AKx

A wonderful read!
10 February 2009
A powerful story which I could not put it down. An amazing first book, by a very talented writer.

Fantastic!
10 February 2009
The above says it all!

Fantastic
15 February 2009
Enlightening and enthralling!

A good Read
16 February 2009
Well done, Sade a good read.

An great insight into a parallel universe
16 February 2009
The best books take us to a place we've never been before. 'Imagine This' invites us deep into the world of a young, bright and sassy Nigerian girl sent back from England to the rawness of life in her home village. The character of Lola is a great creation and stays with the reader. She is honest, warm, brave and funny, which is what made this reader want to stay with her to the last page. A thoroughly commendable debut which deserves much wider recognition outside the 'Africa slot'. I could see it becoming recommended reading in secondary schools because it contains a universal message about what it takes to grow up and come out on top without losing your way.

Life through Lola's eyes
16 February 2009
A good book will give you an interesting read, and tell a tale that keeps you reading. Some books draw you into a new experience, and give you the gift of living the life of their character for as long as the pages turn. I was sorry to put it down, but it gave me food for thought and a new perspective, although through a fictional character, I am sure there are lives similar to Lola's. It rings true all the way through. Sade Adeniran is a skilful and committed writer, and Lola is an unforgettable creation. I recommend this book.

wot can i say
16 February 2009
it's just out of this world can't wait for her next book. keep up the good work

Fantastic Read
16 February 2009
This story is well told - very capitivating and so well written. I just could not drop the book until I had finished reading it! Well done Sade

Great Read
16 February 2009
Great Read, Compelling Book. This book encapsulates images of childhood in a way few have been able to capture. Well told story. Kudos.

Excellent!
16 February 2009
Excellent Book!!!

Great Read
16 February 2009
This book was a great read. Difficult to put down once started.

Great Stuff!
16 February 2009
Amazingly written and totally encapsulating

What a book...
16 February 2009
Excellent first book. Eagerly await another :-)

Must read
16 February 2009
A book like no other. Clear imagery of Lola's life which makes her larger than life.

Excellent first book
16 February 2009
An excellent first book. Keep up the good work

Great...
16 February 2009
A great insight into an interesting character.

Amazed
16 February 2009
Amazed that editors refused to publish this well written and well thought out book. I await another book by this author.

Good work...
16 February 2009
... from a great author

:-)
16 February 2009
Enjoyed reading this book very much.

much enjoyed
16 February 2009
Very much enjoyed reading this book

Lola...
16 February 2009
Lola is a real character once this book has been read.

awesome read
16 February 2009
10 out of 10

Good book
16 February 2009
A good read after many years. Many underlying messages to feed the brain

Great
16 February 2009
Keep up the good work! Writing is your talent... I await to see it flourish even more!

Great Read
16 February 2009
Definitely a book worth talking about. Has created much debate at my work place.

Keep it up
16 February 2009
This is a great book. Much conversation has revolved around this story and character.

Full marks
16 February 2009
Haven't read a book this good in a long while. The characters came to life in an exceptional manner.

Yes you can!
16 February 2009
After reading this book I really believe that you can! A great book which really deserves this prize title.

great book!!
16 February 2009
great book. very interesting story line.

Fantastic
16 February 2009
fantastic book. well written and well thought out

must read book
16 February 2009
I have read many books but this is one of the wonderful one..i will recommend anyone to read this book.Amazing...We need writers like this , to make readers to keep going..

Great Book
17 February 2009
Good book authentic story. Well drawn characters. Voice of childhood correctly portrayed. Great unputdownable read!

Top Marks!!!
17 February 2009
An enjoyable read. Top marks. Very cleverly written.

Top Book
17 February 2009
A fab read. I have read it twice now.

Very Real
18 February 2009
Great book. Real stuff. Well done!!!!

Fantastic Book Get ya votes in
18 February 2009
Fantastic Book Sade. A great book to cosy up next to the fire with

A Unique Read
19 February 2009
Amazing Booking with a unique story.

A great book
19 February 2009
A real page turner.

Go Sade
19 February 2009
Your book is so good sade. I never knew you were so talented. Wow your so amazing to have writen such a great book. Well done.

Really enjoyed it
19 February 2009
This book was highly recommended by a friend from Taekwondo and I am so glad that I picked up a copy because I couldn’t put it back down. Very well written and well thought out. Well done.

This is my third read...
19 February 2009
Just love reading it

Totally Inspirational
19 February 2009
A wonderful narrative that takes you through the twists and turns of Lola's life. Brilliant writing.

Amazing
20 February 2009
I bought it on recommendation and I'm glad I read it. Amazing story.

Fabulous
20 February 2009
Everyone has put it more eloquently than I can

Wow
20 February 2009
I didn't expect to, but I loved this book. Lola is a feisty character and you can't help but feel for her

7/10
21 February 2009
Great effort for a debut author.

Good but not the greatest
21 February 2009
Very filmic, I could see this as a film on TV. Good storyline.

Top Book
22 February 2009
Enjoyed the book a lot.

A very good book
23 February 2009
I really liked the story, I felt Lola's heartache, her joy and her confusion. Very good.

Suprisingly good
23 February 2009
Was recommended and I didn't regret my decision to buy. Lola's journey is topsy-turvy and you're there with her every step of the way. Fav part in the book is when she's more mature though. As a child, she was a bit self indulgent.

Winner
23 February 2009
Must be The Book to Talk About.

I did like it
23 February 2009
Well done Sade and best wishes to you. Imagine This deserves to win.

Rooting for ya
23 February 2009
Well done, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you. It is a good book :-)

Outstanding!
24 February 2009
I enjoyed reading this book.

You Rock
24 February 2009
10/10 fantastic

Definite winner
24 February 2009
I recommend this book to people who love a good story. Lola is an inspiring character.

Very good
24 February 2009
Lola builds up strength, she is determined and inspiring.

I hope you win
25 February 2009
It's a book worth talking about.

Great book
26 February 2009
This is a book for all to learn from and find a new understanding of life. Great read.