OIL ON WATER

Habila’s haunting novel, set in the violent, anarchic world of today’s Niger River Delta, has an important story to tell for anyone on the planet who puts petroleum in his or her car. Zaq and Rufus, two Nigerian journalists, wander through the nightmare landscape of poisoned rivers, deserted villages, impoverished refugees, murderous militants, and equally murderous soldiers in search of a kidnapped Englishwoman and, perhaps, something more. Richard Allen’s deep, rich voice makes the characters come to life, although the West African accent he uses can be a little distracting. Yet his pacing is perfect, and his diction always clear. This is a compelling story well read and worth hearing. F.C. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2011]