On the bustling streets of Nigeria, Rilwan’s journey begins with a heartache – the loss of his parents which was shrouded in secrecy. As a result, he finds himself under the thumb of his cruel aunt, Aunty Biliki, who thrusts him into the unforgiving world of street hawking. Amidst the chaos, a twist of fate introduces him to the enigmatic Saka Pepper, a man whose role in Rilwan’s life is as uncertain as it is transformative. With a shared love for the pulsating beats of fuji music, Pepper becomes the unexpected mentor Rilwan never knew he needed. As Rilwan navigates the complexities of street life and the allure of the fuji music scene, he discovers that the road, indeed, does not end. It is a path filled with adversity, friendship, and the rhythm of a culture that refuses to be silenced. Will Rilwan’s resilience lead him to the life he yearns for, or will the streets claim his dreams?
“There’s a manner in which an average Nigerian tells a story, which reflects in the writing and is distinct. We are natural storytellers; we love to tell stories, we love to talk, and we talk big” – Olubunmi Familoni
For “The Road Does Not End” by Familoni Oluranti Olubunmi, the Jury stated that the book addresses the critical issue of child labour in society adding that, “The book explores themes of resilience and human connection, emphasizing the importance of relationships and the need for continuous self-improvement.”- report NPL
Author: Olubunmi Familoni
Genre: YA/ cross between surrealism and exhilaration.
Rights: all rights available, ex Nigerian English rights (2025)
Pages: 154