Word-of-mouth recommendation has always been a great way to amplify the reach of great books. I speak for many readers when I say that the instinct to recommend books is almost as inherent as that which impels one to read in the first place. Oftentimes, when I read a book I truly enjoy, I immediately try to get the people I love to read it too. Sometimes I go as far as forcing books on people, breathing down their necks until they finally read it. If my methods seem a tad aggressive, it might help to know that some of the greatest books I’ve read have been forced down my throat in similar manners.

That’s why in our First Draft column at The Republic, we ask African writers to share the last great book recommendations the received. This way, we discover some of the popular books being passed around within writers’ inner circles. From the researcher and editor who borrowed a Nigerian author’s novel from a friend to the Nigerian author whose friend recommended a rollercoaster of a novel to her, these writers are taking—and loving—book recommendations from loved ones!

Here are six African writers and the last great book recommendations they have received.