Welcome to my corner of the internet
My name is Adaobi Ezirim or Adanna Akudo, and I am a Nigerian writer, storyteller, brand and communications professional, baker, avid reader, and a woman learning to shape my world with stories.
I have always been fascinated by stories. Funnily, I don’t know which parent I inherited this love from, but I grew up enjoying reading, writing, and telling stories. As a child, it was considered “too much” a few times, but like every passion, it kept growing.
I believe everything has a backstory: the meals we cook, the places we call home, the books that change our perspectives, the people who cross our paths, and even the seasons of our lives we would rather forget.
Professionally, I have a background in brand management and communications, where I have spent years exploring the power of words, ideas, and storytelling. Today, I channel that experience into helping businesses find their voice, communicate their value, and tell stories that connect with the right people.
So, what will you find here?
A little bit of everything that makes me me.
You will find books and conversations about African literature, stories about women and the complexities of being one, reflections on faith and my walk with God, thoughts on personal growth and the adventure of navigating adulthood, and little glimpses into Nigerian life, culture, food, and everyday experiences.
You will also find my writing journey, including the stories I am working on, the published ones that I need you to read, and the ideas in my head that I can’t put into words. As a fiction writer, I am drawn to stories that explore family, love, identity, faith, womanhood, and humanity. My debut novel is one expression of that love for storytelling, and I hope it is only the beginning.
Because I spend part of my professional life thinking about brands and communication, there will be a few thoughts on business, creativity, and telling better stories.
A few things about me
I love books, especially African fiction. I like to convince myself that I could balance out with the other genres, but so far, it’s been a loveless relationship. I haven’t given up on myself, though.
I enjoy good food, meaningful conversations, and lovely people who make me laugh, cry, question something, or see the world a little differently. I don’t joke with my community.
My Christian faith is an important part of my life, and I am continually learning what it means to grow in faith, live intentionally, and become the woman God is calling me to be.
I am learning that life does not always go according to plan. Sometimes you start over, and it is okay. The phrase “He who has life has hope” is the most generic adage that resonates with me. In the middle of a storm, I remember I still have life, and that is all the motivation I need.
I suppose that is one of the reasons I love stories so much. They remind us that there is always more to a person than what we can see.
I’m glad you’re here.
I hope that you discover your next favourite book, learn something new about storytelling, find a little encouragement for your own journey, or laugh at the absurdities of being an adult in Nigeria.
Whatever brings you here, I hope you stay awhile.
I’m happy to share this whole new world with you.
With love,
Adaobi Ezirim