AUST Hosts Engaging Book Review of  Crying Clouds

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, recently hosted an engaging one-hour book review event centred on the novel Crying Clouds by Mr Chidibere Uchendu, bringing together students and staff for an interactive literary experience.

The session was modera by Mrs Onyebuchi Ekpolomo, the Chief Librarian, who welcomed attendees and outlined the purpose and structure of the event. To set an energetic tone, she led participants through a brief warm-up activity—a collaborative storytelling game in which contributors built a connected narrative using successive letters of the alphabet. The exercise encouraged creativity and active participation, with attendees contributing short phrases and sentences.

The activity transitioned into a spoken-word performance delivered by Itunbe Issac Ishiekwen, a 100-level Software Engineering student, whose presentation was warmly received by the audience.

Following the warm-up, the author, Mr Chidibere Uchendu, provided an overview of Crying Clouds, highlighting its accessible writing style, emotional depth, and rich symbolism. He drew particular attention to the recurring motifs of clouds and rain, which represent emotional release and renewal throughout the narrative.

The book reading was performed by Mba Jewell Uzochi, a 300-level Computer Science student, who brought selected sections of the novel to life. The session then progressed into an interactive discussion, during which participants examined character development within the story. Particular focus was placed on a character whose journey evolved from appearing sympathetic to exhibiting antagonistic traits. Contributors attributed this transformation to factors such as youth, shifting influences, and changing life circumstances, rather than simplistic moral judgement.

The programme also featured a musical performance by YENE, adding a creative dimension to the event.

In attendance were key members of the university community, including Mr Obioha Atulomah, Head of the Media and Public Relations Unit; Mrs Bolade Igbagbo of Human Resources; and Mrs Nsima Joseph E., Coordinator of Student Affairs, alongside Dr Eunice Ngozi Akpala-Okoroafor, as well as other staff and students.

The event concluded with reflections on the novel’s central themes of resilience, identity, and the influence of circumstances on human behaviour, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation of literature as a tool for personal and social insight.