Lizzy_John_0570

About the book:
Spirited and intelligent, Kate grows up surrounded by school friends and family in busy, modern day Lagos, Nigeria. An adoring little sister, their traditional parents and hosts of aunties, uncles and cousins makes their home. So there’s nothing unusual about her charming but troubled uncle Peter moving in with the family. At first Kate and her sister Eniola delighted, but in her innocence, nothing prepares kate for the shameful secrets uncle P forces upon her.

Are you there God? It’s me Kate

As the days go by, I can feel myself growing up. I'm getting taller, my voice is changing, and I'm starting to think about things in a different way. And then, one day, I wake up and realize that it's my birthday. I'm finally 14!

I lie in bed for a moment, feeling excited and a bit nervous. What will this new year bring? Will I make new friends? Will I start to like boys? (The thought makes me blush.) Will I get better at school?

I throw off my covers and get out of bed, feeling a sense of anticipation. Eniola is already up and waiting for me in the kitchen, a big smile on her face.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KATE!" she shouts, waving a homemade birthday sign.

I laugh and hug her. "Thanks, Sis! You're the best sister ever!"

Mom and Dad come into the kitchen, carrying a big birthday cake and a bunch of presents. We spend the morning eating cake, opening gifts, and taking photos.

But today isn't just about my birthday. We're also having a housewarming party to celebrate our new home. Our whole family is coming over, including my aunties, uncles, and cousins.

As the morning goes on, the house starts to fill up with people. My aunties are busy in the kitchen, cooking up a storm of delicious Nigerian dishes. My uncles are setting up the music and decorations, while my cousins are running around, playing games and having fun.

I feel so grateful to have such a big, loving family. We always have so much fun together, and today is no exception.

As I'm walking through the living room, I see Uncle Peter standing by the window, looking out at the garden. He turns and catches my eye, and I feel a sudden jolt of anxiety.

"Happy birthday, Kate!" he says, walking over to me with a big smile on his face.

I force a smile onto my face, trying to hide my unease. "Thanks, Uncle Peter."

He hands me a small gift box. "I got you a little something. I hope you like it."

I take the box, feeling a sense of obligation. "Thanks, Uncle Peter. That's really kind of you."

I open the box, revealing a beautiful silver necklace with a small pendant in the shape of a heart. It's really pretty, and I feel a pang of guilt for not being more grateful.

"Thanks, Uncle Peter," I say again, trying to sound more sincere. "It's really beautiful."

Uncle Peter smiles and pats me on the shoulder. "I'm glad you like it, Kate. You deserve it."

I smile back at him, feeling a sense of relief that the encounter is over. I quickly excuse myself, saying I need to go help Mom with something.

As I walk away, I feel a sense of unease lingering inside me. I try to shake it off, focusing on the fun and celebration of the day. But I know that I'll never be able to fully shake off the feelings of anxiety and discomfort that Uncle Peter's presence always brings.

A new age