By Faith Kordoo
A Vagabond once said, “If you’ve been to the stadium a Thousand Times, then you’ll have a thousand stories to tell”. And tell these stories, he did tell.
Coming off the success of his first title, A Thousand Times on the Same Road, China Acheru, a renowned Nigerian Sports Journalist and Vagabond takes us on yet another exciting tour, regaling us with stories from “some” of his trips around the world, covering the precious round leather game.
“Diary of a Vagabond” is a captivating travelogue that effortlessly blends humor, wit, and eloquence, making it a must-read for anyone who loves travel, sports, or a good story well-told.
Acheru’s writing style is conversational, sarcastic, and witty, drawing readers into his world and making them feel like they’re sitting with him, swapping stories over a cold beer. Simply put, China Acheru writes the way he talks, and you can picture his countenance in every sentence.
His ability to recount even the most harrowing experiences with humor and humility is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.
The book is a collection of tales from Acheru’s travels, each one more fascinating than the last. From getting chased out of a shop in Morocco to finding out that “Size is all that matters” in the Gambia, Acheru’s stories are a wild ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Acheru seamlessly transitions between stories, using language that is both evocative and accessible.
Keeping in line with the tradition started in his first book, Acheru recruits Akinbode Oguntuyi, a fellow traveler to write a guest chapter. Oguntuyi’s chapter, “This One Die Here Today,” is a harrowing tale of his experience in Gombe, and it fits seamlessly into the book’s narrative.
But for his name attached to the chapter, one could easily mistake it for China’s. I guess we can say “show me your friend and I will tell you how he writes’’.
As if the stories themselves do not carry enough lessons and wisdom, China gifts us with food for thought quotes in each chapter.
Between the pages of the book lies a valuable lesson on journaling and record keeping and maybe there’s more where all these stories came from, but till then, you should have a read.
You can visit Bookville, Mummy B Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State to buy the book or go to www.Amazon.com or www.books.chinaacheru.com.
