A 14-year-old author, Gavrila Oteh, recently presented her debut novel, Hopes of Tomorrow, to the public at the Peace Assembly auditorium, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The book launch, which brought friends, family, and literary enthusiasts together, saw Oteh donating 10 percent of the proceeds to an orphanage.
Oteh was inspired by a community service project at a children’s hospital and shared her motivation for writing the 321-page novel, published by the Origami imprint of Parresia Publishers, Lagos.
She stated that during a social work project assigned to her classmates at school, The Atlantic Hall, she experienced seeing children struggle with terminal diseases which deeply moved her, thereby igniting a passion for the less privileged.
“My main inspiration for this book came from a community service project about a year ago. I went to a children’s hospital and saw life from a different point of view. It was a life-changing experience,” Oteh revealed. “I learned to empathise more and put myself in others’ shoes, making the book more realistic.”
Oteh’s book launch featured a keynote address by the founder of the Jordan Hill Creative Writing and Reading Workshop for Children, Mrs Adeola Eze, represented by Ms. SandaImah, who commended the author for her dedication to highlighting societal issues.
“I celebrate you, Gavrilla Oteh, and the many children out there who are changing the world in their ways. Thank you for being a role model,” she said.
The event also saw the chief launcher, Victor Bandele, Group Managing Director of Total Nigeria praise Oteh’s literary talent, stating, “I have known Gavrilla since she was a child, and I am amazed by the depth of her thought process and the quality of her writing.” He also urged renowned writers to mentor younger writers to encourage them and help them hone their craft.
Oteh announced that 10 percent of the proceeds from her book sales will be donated to an orphanage, She emphasised the importance of societal and governmental support for underprivileged children.
The launch included a short film adaptation of the book, curated by filmmaker Emmanuel King. The film highlights the struggles of three orphans, Ileri, Itunu, and Ewa, navigating life after losing their parents. The story underscores resilience, societal pressure, and the power of will.
Oteh’s friends, Toluwani Filani, Naomi Atim, Anuoluwa Seriki and Modupeore Babalola also engaged the book on stage. They highlighted the various themes and their favourite chapters and praised the author for her resilience in engaging in the productive craft of storytelling.
In her closing remarks, Oteh encouraged aspiring writers to persevere despite challenges.
“There were times I lost motivation and doubted the success of my book. But I am very proud of myself for completing it,” she said.
My advice to younger ones is to start writing now; you never know where it will lead.”
Parents and educators in attendance were urged to support and nurture children’s talents, creating an enabling environment for their growth. “Parents, children are seeds in your hands. Support and provide an enabling environment for them to blossom,” Ms. Imah added.
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