Okadabooks, E-Book Publishing and the Distribution of Homegrown Nigerian Literature

Abstract

This article examines the work of Okadabooks, a Nigerian e-book publishing and reading platform and its impact on the Nigerian publishing industry, exploring the complex and overlapping relationships between writing online, self-publishing and e-book publishing. Drawing on interviews as well as an institutional analysis of Okadabooks, the article traces the emergence and evolution of Okadabooks as a way of documenting an important and growing sector of literary publishing in Nigeria. By examining book distribution challenges in Nigeria, and exploring the ways e-book publishing offers solutions in terms of ease of publication, it shows how the platform enables writers to make money from their writing, and reach more readers. Consequently, it shows how Okadabooks is opening up spaces for homegrown Nigerian literary talent in a way that creates both cultural and economic value. Finally, the article highlights the innovative ways in which Okadabooks works both online and offline, through partnerships, social media campaigns and community social responsibility, to build communities of readers and writers.