Jumia Books Do Not Come to You by Chance Author: Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani

Do Not Come to You by Chance by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani is a compelling debut novel that plunges readers into the morally complex world of Nigerian email scams—known locally as “419.” Through the eyes of Kingsley Ibe, a young university graduate struggling to find work and support his family, the story explores the tension between survival and integrity.

When Kingsley’s wealthy uncle Boniface, a notorious figure in the email fraud business, offers him a way out of poverty, Kingsley must choose between his values and the seductive promise of financial security. The novel deftly balances humor, heartbreak, and social commentary, painting a vivid portrait of contemporary Nigeria and the pressures that drive ordinary people into extraordinary choices.

Nwaubani’s writing is sharp and empathetic, offering readers a nuanced look at ambition, ethics, and the ripple effects of economic hardship. The book is both a gripping narrative and a cultural lens into the realities of youth unemployment, family expectations, and digital deception.

???? Key Themes:

Economic survival vs. moral integrity

Family loyalty and generational pressure

The psychology of fraud and deception

Youth unemployment and social mobility

Nigerian culture and contemporary realities

???? Kenyan Relevance:

For Kenyan readers—especially youth, creatives, and social commentators—this novel offers:

A relatable exploration of economic pressure and ethical dilemmas

Insight into digital fraud culture that parallels local experiences

A powerful literary voice from West Africa, enriching regional understanding

Ideal for book clubs, youth empowerment bundles, and literature curricula

???? Cataloging Suggestions:

Category: African Literature / Contemporary Fiction / Social Commentary

Bundles: Pair with The Death of Vivek Oji, Tomorrow I Become a Woman, or A Broken People’s Playlist for a “Modern Nigeria in Fiction” bundle

Audience Tags: Youth, Literary Readers, Social Thinkers, African Fiction Enthusiasts