Zaynab Alkali urges young writers to read, write more

Prof. Zaynab Alkali, renowned novelist, poet and short story writer, has advised young writers to read a lot and write more to be able to hone their writing skills and attain greater heights in the literary world.

Alkali gave the advice in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria  (NAN) on the sidelines of the Guest Writer Session, organised by the Abuja Writers Forum on Sunday.

“When some people start writing, they may feel they are not good enough, but as they say, ‘practice makes perfect’.

“The more you read and write, the more perfect you become; so I would advise that young people should read; reading is very important, it will enable them perfect their writing skills,” she said.

The first woman novelist from Northern Nigeria, also emphasised that writing could aid the development of the youths in the country.

The mother of six and a 1973 graduate of Bachelor of Arts from Bayero University, Kano, said the more the youths read and write, the more vast and enlightened they become.

She said: “Sadly enough, some people are no longer interested in writing; they are more interested in viewing; I am not saying that viewing is bad, but there should be a moderation.

“If we encourage writing and reading in Nigeria, I think it will be better for the young people.’’

NAN reports that the 67-year old Borno State-born feminist read parts of her new book `Invisible Borders’ to the audience at the event.

The novel narrates the reunion of Sam and Sofia after years of separation.

Presented through thoughts of Sofia, the story unfolds as an exploration of friendship, love, betrayal and sacrifice.