For me, a good book must mention food.
But a good number of the food say Nigerians, eat today should not be featuring in historical fiction set in the 13th century. No to cassava or peanuts but yes to watermelon (did you know watermelon is indigenous to the continent?) and African rice.
The “Lost crops of Africa” trilogy from the National Academies Press offers information on grain, fruits and vegetables indigenous to different parts of the continent. Some of the crops listed are hardly eaten today while others are still popular.
Read and download:
Lost Crops of Africa: Volume I: Grains
Lost Crops of Africa: Volume II: Vegetables
Lost Crops of Africa: Volume III: Fruits
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I absolutely applaud your efforts in curating Nigeria from the pre-colonial days. Would you consider writing for bellanaija perhaps? Your work should read a wider audience. How about publishing a book?
Thank you so much Tunmi! Honestly I wouldn’t mind if more people read my blog but I think history is boring for most Nigerians. I will love to write a book, just looking for time 😀