Edward is a generous and caring family man, who has built a successful life around him. Tragedy strikes however, when he is gunned down one day by violent criminals. His widow and the young family that he leaves behind, continue to enjoy the support of Edward’s wider family circle after his death. They are also supported by Edward’s close friend, Mr Adams and his family.
Turmoil enters the ranks when Edward’s older brother, Robert, citing local traditions, announces his intention to take Edward’s place, by moving into the family home of his late brother. Robert’s own family, from whom he is estranged, oppose his bid. His father also strongly warns against this course, "lest tragedy and pestilence befall you." He advises Robert that, "any tradition that does not add value to our lives has to be thrown away."
I Live by the Gun is Joy C. Agwu’s third book and continues her preoccupation with themes of family, faith, community, the ties that bind. In I Live by the Gun however, the subject of individual autonomy arises, making it, perhaps, her most challenging work to date. It can be read as an affirmation of human rights, as they pertain to women and children in particular, weighed down by the expectations of ‘culture and traditions’. Such claims, when invoked in an anachronistic sort way, merely serve as a pretext to impose conditions of servitude upon people.
I Live by the Gun by Joy C. Agwu
Fiction, African literature, Christian fiction
138 printed pages, paperback
First published in 2014. Published with the assistance of The Manuscript Publisher
ISBN: 978-1494453251
Also Available in e-Book Editions
A Kindle compatible edition of this e-book is available on Amazon and Amazon UK, along with other Amazon domains.
Kindle books are suitable for reading on all Kindle devices as well as Kindle Apps, which are free to download to your phone, laptop, tablet, PC, etc.
Kindle devices are available to purchase online from Amazon and Amazon UK, along with other Amazon domains.
Other e-Book Formats
Please visit Smashwords for further information about other common e-book formats including:
ePub - suitable for Apple iPad/iBooks, Nook, Sony Reader, Kobo, and most e-reading apps including Stanza, Aldiko, Adobe Digital Editions
Mobi - Kindle compatible (see above)
PDF - suitable for reading directly from on your PC or laptop using Adobe Reader