By Prisca Sam-Duru

Jumoke Verissimo is a celebrated author and educator, who understands the power of stories to foster empathy, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

As an Assistant Professor of English at Toronto Metropolitan University, Jumoke’s love for storytelling led her to become an award-winning author, poet, and scholar. She has published numerous books for both adults and children, including her acclaimed novel A Small Silence and the enchanting children’s book Àdùkẹ́, as well as Grandma and the Moon’s Secrets which is on the longlist of the 2024 Nigeria Prize for Literature.

She tells us more in this exclusive online chat. Read on.

Congratulations for making the longlist of the 2024 the Nigeria Prize for Literature; how does it feel being honoured again because I know it’s not your first time?

Thank you so much, Prisca. I appreciate your goodwill and kindness. It is indeed an honour to be nominated for the Nigeria Prize for Literature again. Each time, it is an honour and validation of the writing, which I am very passionate about. Yet, while the recognition is very appreciated and humbling, the true reward is the opportunity to share my stories and connect with more readers. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.

Kindly share the inspiration behind Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret

I enjoyed writing Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret. The first inspiration was that I wanted to tap into the boundless imagination of children while also exploring how we impart wisdom to them. I am one of those who believe a child should enjoy being a child, and even in trying to tell a story that establishes the importance of how we transmit important knowledge to children. My goal was to balance playful storytelling with meaningful content, using imagination as a vehicle to deliver important messages without being overly instructive. I wanted to create a world familiar to children, filled with elements they could relate to—their bond with grandmothers, school life, community, family dynamics, and their imaginative ways of understanding the world. My goal was to provide a canvas upon which young readers could paint their own stories.

Children, as I have mentioned, have incredible imaginations, and this helps them to navigate the world. For instance, when my daughter was young, she’d declare herself invisible to avoid getting ready for school. I woke her up one day and she said, “I am invisible.” I am like, madam abeg comot for bed I can see you! Then she replied with, “no, no, no you can’t see me, you can’t see me. I have covered myself with my invisible blanket and you can’t see me.” Kids are funny, and while moments like the one I have shared are humorous, they highlight the importance of instilling routines like the importance of early bedtimes in fun ways. It’s this kind of boundless creativity that inspired me to write Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret. I wanted to create a world where imagination soars without sacrificing substance. I don’t want to be so consumed with teaching children in my books that I forget the simple joys of childhood: exploring, wondering, and living in the moment.

Also, witnessing the tender interactions between grandparents and their grandkids is truly heartwarming. The tenderness is unquantifiable. But what happens when a child loses the indescribable beauty of these connections? How do we help them hold onto the cherished memories and at the same time, bring them comfort? I mean, children are convinced they have superpowers. They are as intelligent as they are innocent. I sought to preserve both characteristics in my book. 

What do you hope young readers take away from the book?

I hope that young readers will find in this book a sense of connection, empathy, and a spark of curiosity about the world around them. If I can ignite their imagination, inspire them to question, and perhaps even encourage them to find their voice, then my work has served its purpose.

What are the themes or messages explored through major characters in this longlisted book?

One of the primary reasons for writing Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret was to address loss. It was crucial to approach this sensitive subject with care and sensitivity, without overwhelming young readers. The book explores the child’s experience of losing a beloved grandmother, in a way that respects a child’s understanding while also celebrating a strong family bond and the power of imagination as a coping mechanism. Beyond the emotional core, I aimed to instill hope and resilience in young readers. The idea of Grandma living on the moon offers a comforting and imaginative perspective on loss. Children are visual learners. To deny them the power of images is to limit their understanding of the world. It is one of the reasons the illustrations in the book explore the imaginative depth of the book.

The child’s imagination is a powerful tool for coping with loss, something I believe resonates with readers of all ages. While the book is deeply rooted in Nigerian culture, its universal themes of love, loss, and hope make it relatable to audiences worldwide. I hope that Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret offers comfort, solace, and a sense of shared experience.

Writing for children requires both education and entertainment, how did you strike a balance between the fun part and lessons in your book?

I wrote this book to tell a truly enchanting story that would captivate young readers. I wanted to write a story with depth and meaning, but without being overly didactic. There’s a tendency to believe children’s books must overtly impart moral lessons, and I was wary of underestimating young readers. Children are intelligent and perceptive; they don’t always need explicit good-versus-evil narratives. I aimed to create a story that resonated with their experiences and offered a glimpse into the complexities of life. I think children ask us these questions about heavy things, and we are perplexed about how to tell them. How do we discuss the loss of a beloved grandmother with a child for instance, without taking away their innocence? So, even when tackling a sensitive topic like loss, I wanted to foster a sense of hope and resilience while acknowledging the pain. The goal was to empower children to look forward, understanding that challenges are part of life’s journey.

Balancing education and entertainment in children’s literature is like finding the perfect recipe. It’s about understanding that learning can be fun, and fun can be educational, and being educational does not have to be a chore. For me, it was essential to create a world that children would find captivating, filled with a character they could relate to and adventures they’d enjoy. With this in mind, I subtly told a good story with the hope that it will resonate with young readers.

What roles do children’s literature play in the overall development of a child’s imagination and creativity, as well as the society?

A child’s creativity can be ignited by reading children’s literature. It opens up a huge, uncharted world where kids can do anything, be anybody, and have any kind of experience. Children develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and the ability to dream large by reading stories. They hone their analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities in this mental playground. Innovators, artists, and future leaders are formed from the ground up with these abilities, which are best developed during childhood. To put it simply, children’s literature has a profound impact on both individuals and entire communities, encouraging tolerance, empathy, and a thirst for knowledge.

How do you engage young readers with your storytelling? Do you employ any unique techniques?

Engaging young readers is about building a strong connection. I focus on creating relatable characters who children can both admire and empathize with. By weaving vivid language and imaginative worlds, I aim to transport them to extraordinary places that spark their curiosity.

One technique I employ is taking ordinary things or situations and stretching them beyond their familiar boundaries, much like a child’s boundless imagination. For example, a simple matchbox can become a spaceship or a magical portal in a child’s mind. My goal is to help them see the extraordinary in the ordinary, nurturing their creativity and sense of wonder.

From my interactions with young readers, I’ve discovered that curiosity is their natural state. By tapping into this innate desire to explore and understand, I can craft stories that not only entertain but also inspire.

Most authors write autobiographically, do you have any part of you in this book?

While it’s true that many authors draw from personal experiences, I believe every story, especially a children’s book, is a blend of imagination and observation. In this case, I’ve tapped into the childlike wonder and curiosity that resides in all of us. While I may not have lived the exact experiences of my protagonist, I’ve certainly channelled my memories of childhood, those moments of pure joy and unfiltered imagination. It’s about connecting with the child within and bringing that perspective to life on the page.

I witnessed one of your poetry performances at the National Theatre sometime ago; it was titled ‘mo fe so’ it was great. I’d like to know, apart from poetry and children’s literature, which other genres are you comfortable with, and how do you navigate from one to the other?

Thank you for bringing up my “Mo fe so” performance. It’s a fond memory. I consider myself a versatile writer, comfortable exploring different genres. While I haven’t ventured into drama yet, I’m open to the possibility. I’ll just need a good mentor and a lot of reading.

My love for reading has been instrumental in shaping my writing style. I’ve always been an avid reader, devouring everything from newspapers wrapped around my akara to in-depth literary works and even self-help books. This diverse reading habit has broadened my perspective and equipped me to have an expansive way of seeing.

My professional journey as a journalist, copywriter, and public relations practitioner has also contributed to my writing versatility. These experiences have honed my ability to adapt to different styles and audiences. Ultimately, I believe in seizing opportunities to explore new creative territories. I’m grateful for the chances I’ve had to write in various fields, I appreciate all those who gave me opportunities in these places, and I generally continue to learn and grow as a writer.

Are there any particular authors or literary influences that have shaped your writing style or approach?

Pinpointing specific authors as influences is challenging, as my writing is a culmination of countless stories, voices, and experiences. Both Nigerian and international writers have contributed to my understanding of storytelling. From the oral traditions of my culture and interaction of places where I had my secondary education, to contemporary global literature, I’ve drawn inspiration from a diverse range of voices. What truly shapes my work is the cumulative impact of these experiences, allowing me to create stories that resonate on multiple levels.

Nonetheless, my love for reading began as a child, so I’d focus on some of the children’s literature that remains in my memory. Maybe we can consider them as having a significant influence on my journey into writing, as they opened up my imagination. Also, I was lucky to grow up around libraries; my school library and we had one at Palm Avenue, in Mushin where I grew up. I read books like Onuora Nzekwu’s Eze Goes to School. Chinua Achebe’s Chike and the River, Kole Onadipe’s Sugar Girl, all of Cyprian Ekwensi’s books, Mallam Ilia, Eddie Iroh’s Without a Silver Spoon and so many others. I remember Anezi Okoro’s One Week, One Trouble. Mabel Segun’s My father’s daughter. There are many. I loved them all and I guess they influenced me in different ways. Also, I loved reading encyclopedias. I read books like Famous Five, Peter Pan, Charles Dickens’ works, Winnie the Pooh, Seuss’ Books, The Adventures of TinTin comics, Roald Dahl’s books.

Are you working on any book for the next cycle?

Thank you for the question.  I can’t understate how it is an honor to be considered by the judges for the NLNG Prize. Yet, my primary focus is on crafting the best possible story. I believe the prize celebrates literary excellence, and I fear that aligning my writing solely to meet award cycles might compromise the integrity of my work. I want my work to stand the test of time.

Nonetheless, I will continue to enter my books where it fits the cycle, I’ll certainly consider submitting it, as I did with Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret. My first book, I am memory, was published in 2019 and there were two poetry cycles before I entered my second poetry collection, The Birth of Illusion, the one that was nominated for the prize in 2017. So, it’s about focusing on the writing for me, and hoping that every other thing aligns. I certainly have a few completed manuscripts. One will be published late next year by Coach House, in Canada. The thing is that I’m always immersed in a writing project (laughs). But, I don’t know if these works will be completed or suitable for the next award cycle. Time and chance…

But I won’t deny that it is very gratifying when one’s work aligns with a prestigious prize like the NLNG. This recognition gives me a profound sense of gratitude and humility. Still, I ensure I do not forget that my journey as a writer is a continuous exploration, driven by a passion for storytelling. For me, it is very important not to think too highly of oneself, the focus remains on the writing. I have been privileged to have people and organisations who supported my writing career, and that is a reminder that I shouldn’t stop writing — they believed in me.

How does the NLNG literature prize impact the literary community and society in general?

Without a doubt, the NLNG Prize for Literature has been instrumental in elevating the status of Nigerian literature on the global stage. It has offered so many writers a prominent platform, highlights exceptional works, and cultivates a thriving literary community. I believe that by honouring and rewarding literary excellence, the prize inspires and continues to uplift writers of different generations. The NLNG has become more than just a prize; I see it as an investment in Nigeria’s cultural legacy and a platform for diverse voices to be heard.

To what level do you think this literature prize shapes the works of Nigerian writers?

The careers of Nigerian writers have been significantly shaped by the NLNG Prize. It has offered a much-needed platform to showcase talent and gain recognition. The kind of recognition it offers can lead to international opportunities, and opportunities to engage deeply with one’s primary audience, the readers. Beyond that, the prize continues to inspire and motivate aspiring writers, building the author’s credibility and reputation, drawing in a larger readership and creating a healthy competitive environment that drives literary excellence.

In the end, the Nigerian literary ecosystem continues to grow and develop, thanks in part to the NLNG Prize.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers, particularly those interested in writing for children?

My number one piece of advice for aspiring writers is to read extensively and deeply, especially when targeting a younger audience. Immerse yourself in children’s literature to understand their passions, anxieties, and aspirations. Most importantly, write authentically. Children are remarkably perceptive, so genuine emotions will resonate with them. Don’t be afraid to experiment with language and style, and always remember that the best stories ignite imagination and leave a lasting impression. The stories you remember are the ones that matter.