Title: Unexpected Joy at Dawn
Description: The book follows Nii Tackie, a Ghanaian‑born man of Nigerian descent, and his sister Mama Orojo who were separated years earlier by political upheaval and forced migration. Nii struggles with identity, hardship, and xenophobia in Ghana, while Mama Orojo builds a life in Nigeria but still longs for her brother. Their lives — shaped by displacement, poverty, prejudice, and family loyalty — unfold against the backdrop of migration and social chaos. Eventually, in the early morning “dawn,” an unexpected reunion occurs, giving the novel its title.
Subjects: Fiction, Return migration, Identity Crisis
Places: Lagos, Accra Nigeria, Ghana
People: Nii Tackie – The male protagonist; a Ghanaian-born man of Nigerian descent. He struggles with identity, discrimination, and hardships in Ghana.Mama Orojo – Nii’s sister; separated from him during childhood. She grows up in Nigeria, longing to reconnect with her brother.Other family members – Minor references to parents or relatives who influence the siblings’ past and separation.Society / Community Figures – People in Ghana and Nigeria who represent xenophobia, support, or obstacles in the siblings’ journey.
Time periods: The story is set in the modern/contemporary era, likely late 20th century to early 21st century.The focus is on post-colonial West Africa, particularly Ghana and Nigeria, a time when migration, political instability, and social issues like xenophobia were very real challenges.Exact years aren’t always specified, but the events are contemporary enough to reflect realistic urban life, migration struggles, and family separation.