Basi and Company
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
Basi and Company is a satirical novel by Ken Saro-Wiwa that follows the misadventures of Basi, a cunning and street-smart man who, along with his cohorts, Alali and Boma, tries to make a fortune in the city. The book is set in Nigeria and offers a humorous yet incisive look at the socio-economic conditions of the time. Through a series of schemes and business ventures, Basi and his company attempt to navigate the corrupt and often chaotic business world. Their endeavors often land them in comical situations, highlighting the absurdity of the bureaucratic system and the lengths to which people will go to achieve wealth and status. The novel is a critique of the Nigerian society of the 1980s, addressing themes such as corruption, poverty, and the pursuit of material success. Ken Saro-Wiwa uses wit and satire to explore the complexities of life in Nigeria, making 'Basi and Company' not only an entertaining read but also a thought-provoking commentary on the human condition. Basi and Company was the first book of the hugely successful Nigerian comedy television series, which at its peak was watched by an estimated 30 million Nigerians. The New York Times described the show as 'Nigeria's hottest comedy show, [that] seems to have struck a chord because it lampoons modern Nigeria's get-rich-quick mentality'. Basi is an exceptional man, in keeping with the best traditions of tricksters in Yoruba folklore, satirising the get-rich-quick mentality. The author translated the folktale into a contemporary idiom, believing that this format accorded better with African narrative methods.
Age
15-16
Length
82 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Basi
Alali
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Basi to start his own company?
How do Basi's adventures show the importance of creativity and resourcefulness?
What lessons did Basi learn from his experiences?
Which character did you find the most interesting and why?
How can we apply Basi's problem-solving skills in our daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about Basi's decisions and actions. Highlight the significance of creativity and entrepreneurship. Discuss the importance of learning from mistakes, as exemplified in the book. Create connections to real-life scenarios where similar problem-solving could be applied, making the discussion relevant and practical.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of resourcefulness
Explanation: In 'Basi and Company', Basi consistently uses his wit and creativity to navigate various challenges, demonstrating the power of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply innovative solutions to their problems, whether in their studies, games, or daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Consequences of deceit
Explanation: The story vividly portrays how Basi's dishonest schemes often land him in trouble, highlighting the pitfalls of deceit.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of honesty and integrity, helping them understand that dishonesty can lead to undesirable outcomes in real life.
Example Lesson: Importance of perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Basi shows an unwavering commitment to his goals, illustrating the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to persist in their endeavors, whether in completing a difficult task or in pursuing their passions, instilling a mindset that resilience leads to success.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of choices
Explanation: Each episode shows how Basi's choices influence his life and those around him, stressing that decisions have consequences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to think critically about the choices they make and to anticipate and accept the consequences of their actions.