What Happened on Thursday? : A Nigerian Civil War Story

A powerful story of family love amid the backdrop of war, as seen through the eyes of a child. The Nigerian Civil War began and ended on a Thursday, and for the family in this book, their lives are forever changed by that day. Told from a child’s perspective, this story follows one family on their journey as they lose their home, traverse a country under the siege of war, and finally settle in a camp for displaced persons.

But through it all, the love of this child’s family shines bright, helping to illuminate even the darkest paths.

With poetic text by Nigerian author Ayo Oyeku and sensitive portraits by illustrator Lydia Mba, this story reveals the deep costs of war on our future generations and begs for a more peaceful world. Information about the Nigerian Civil War, an Author’s Note, and Discussion Questions are included.