Dreams Beyond the Horizon: A Review of E.C. Osondu’s ‘When the Sky is Ready, the Stars Will Appear’

The validity of dreams should never be taken for granted. We see how one encounter or mishap can trigger the imagination beyond expectation. This story encapsulates how dreams can grow wings and fly, although in this case, it sails on a boat.

“When the Sky is Ready, the Stars Will Appear“ is a stellar achievement, marking yet another definitive point in E.C. Osondu’s literary trajectory. Following the footsteps of his prior works that revolve around the nuances of the African diaspora, this novel continues to underscore Osondu’s ability to weave immersive stories that are strikingly relatable, regardless of your cultural background.

The boy from Gulu Station and cohort become a metaphor for reaching out to bring dreams to life. Their Dreams have a universal appeal. Without dreams what do they live for? Five dreams intersect on the path to fulfilment. Their purpose confluence from career, love, and escape from war into survival. First the raging desert laden with uncertainties, then the looming treachery of the sea. Osondu’s finesse in crafting a multi-layered narrative through the boy’s perspective is commendable. It provides a window into the harsh realities, struggles, and aspirations of an individual torn between his past and the luring potential of a future far away from home.

Could there be a more intriguing search for dreams than that of a nameless young man from the backwaters of the universe aspiring to walk on the paved streets of Rome? This dream is often driven by a sense of hope and possibility. They believe that if they can just make it to Europe, they will be able to achieve their goals and create a better life for themselves and their families. The dream of a better life is a powerful one. It can motivate people to overcome great obstacles and achieve their goals. It is a dream that is shared by many Africans, and it is a dream that is worth fighting for. However, the journey to Europe is often long and difficult. They may face many challenges, such as discrimination, language barriers, and lack of opportunities. But despite these challenges, they continue to dream of a better life.

Gulu station is a symbol of the near-miss situation of many African societies. It reminds me of my village which still carries relics of Better Life projects that could have changed its fortunes. Gulu Station is a metaphor for the conditions that make people leave one’s homeland in pursuit of opportunity. It is a place of poverty, violence, and despair. The people of Gulu are trapped in a cycle of poverty, and they see no hope for a better future.  It Gulu station also embodies a deeper malaise. The pretentious narrative of African communities being communal but in reality, they only share poverty and oppressive narratives. There is often no communal dream of solving poverty. Our dreams are often individual pursuits that intend to deify us amid filth and misery.

 The “I better pass my neighbour syndrome”, pours itself over the aspirations of Anyi, Abdu, Ayira and Zaaid. The dream is to become the grain bearer so others can struggle to peck from our palms. The boy from Gulu Station dreamed of going to Rome and learning how to make the sky rain gold. He knew that if he could do this, he would be able to return home and build a kingdom of plenty. His people would feast on his hands, and he would be their king.

Osondu’s writing style is masterful, with a fluidity that carries the reader on a journey of discovery. Even when exploring the harsh realities of seeking new pathways to wealth, the prose retains its poetic beauty. The story is recounted with an unflinching honesty that is both stark and compelling. It is the fusion of lyrical language and raw storytelling that makes “When the Sky is Ready, the Stars Will Appear” an enthralling read for anyone seeking inspiration on their quest for financial prosperity and going home to be a king. The author masterfully integrates elements of African mythology, folklore, and tradition into his narrative, thereby enriching the reading experience. These elements, intertwined with the contemporary issues explored in the book, provide an expansive context that allows for a deep understanding of the protagonist’s journey and his nuanced struggles.

Osondu’s character development is also worth mentioning. The boy, though nameless, evolves throughout the book, from a hopeful youth to a man hardened by his experiences, and is handled with great finesse. The supporting characters also shine, each of them distinct, memorable, and carefully constructed to bring out various facets of the story’s backdrop.

The book does not shy away from exploring heavy themes – identity, displacement, survival, and the human yearning for belonging. However, it does so with an approach that encourages reflection rather than despair. Osondu’s take on these issues is neither didactic nor preachy but provides enough substance for readers to ponder upon.

However, the pacing of the story may be a concern for some readers. The book adopts a slow, thoughtful rhythm that allows you to fully appreciate the weight of the narrative, but it may not cater to those seeking a fast-paced, plot-heavy story.

This book is an invaluable addition to the canon of African literature and a testament to Osondu’s burgeoning prowess as a storyteller. It’s a novel that demands patience and rewards readers with a profound and illuminating journey through one man’s quest for a sense of belonging in an ever-changing world.

About the Writer: Namse Udosen is a Nigerian writer who enjoys spinning enchanting tales for young minds. From teaching literacy and numeracy to curating book events for kids, he’s an artist and a mentor to kids. He is the author of the children’s classic storybook; Amang Goes to the Village. He sits on the panel judging entries for the Wakini Kuria Prize for Children’s Literature.