Review of Chinedium Akiti-Diego’s ‘Raising Daughters in a Changing World’

While reading the book, I carefully avoided examining the author’s bio. The reason was that I did not want to be influenced by her accolades in imbibing the message the title had assured me. Raising Daughters in a Changing World: A 31-day Father/Daughter Devotional by Chinedium Akiti-Diego is mainly dedicated to all fathers who wish to understand their daughters’ language and relate to them. With practical examples, the author gave her readers an insight into her formative years growing with her father. The colourful cover page calls the attention of anyone who picks it up. The little girl in the picture standing on her father’s shoes definitely shows the intimate relationship the father and daughter have established. Metaphorically, the little girl understands that the presence of her father in her life is a footstool to take on anything in the world. Daughters who actively participate in their father’s life develop a feeling of being worthwhile and have a high possibility of being very successful in life. This 62-pages book can be suitably divided into lessons learnt from the author’s father that she wishes to share with other fathers and lessons she wishes she had been taught. The book is an eye opener on the extreme importance father daughter dynamic relationship have on the daughter’s psychological health, self-confidence, school achievement, intimate relationship and her job and income in the future. It is clear that the devotional is based on memories she shared with her late father, Air Vice Marshal Akiti. One incident I could relate with was when the writer as a little child ran from her parent’s home to a relative’s after a clash with her mother. Moments after being returned home, she remained with her father who did not actively chastise her as most fathers would have but acknowledged her mother’s love for her. The devotional advocates for a complimentary relationship for both parents as it encourages the involvement of the father and mother in child development.  With a lesson to learn from each day and a biblical note, what more is needed in navigating fathers through the complex dichotomy of Fathers/Daughters Relationship. Although it is poorly edited with several typos, wrong punctuation and unreadable words, it, however, does not distract the readers from its well-written plot. In all, it is highly recommended for fathers who dream to have a healthy perfect relationship with their children, and fathers who hope to mend strained relationships. The book covers the basics, it teaches your daughter discipline, how to write, read, build self-esteem, manage finances, relate with other people, and also about nationalism and patriotism. It is also handy for daughters who want to learn how to relate comfortably with their fathers and perhaps recommend to fathers around them. To get the book, send an Email to chinedum.akitidiego@gmail.com or call 08035204020. You can also buy the book at https://laternabooks.com/