In "Allow Me to Introduce Myself," Onyi Nwabineli offers a searing critique of social media exploitation through the compelling and heart-wrenching story of Aṅụrị, a young Igbo woman whose childhood was co-opted by her step-mother’s insatiable need for online validation. Aṅụrị’s journey from being a nonconsensual influencer to reclaiming her agency is depicted with unflinching honesty and lyrical prose, making this novel a poignant exploration of identity, autonomy, and resilience.

Aṅụrị, the step-daughter of a social media mogul, was thrust into the digital limelight from a young age. Her step-mother, Ophelia, exploited her image to amass followers and financial gain, leaving Aṅụrị grappling with the loss of control over her own life. The narrative oscillates between Aṅụrị’s tumultuous past and her present-day legal battle to remove content that features her from Ophelia's platforms. Through this structure, Nwabineli effectively portrays the long-lasting impact of digital exploitation on a person.

Nwabineli's prose is both beautiful and brutal, perfectly capturing Aṅụrị’s internal turmoil: "There is no perfect way to describe what it means to exist in a body that is not your own, that never really was." This sentiment echoes throughout the novel as Aṅụrị grapples with her identity and the control she desperately seeks to regain. Her battle for autonomy is not just a legal one but a deeply personal quest to reclaim her life and self-worth.

The relationship between Aṅụrị and her younger half-sister, Noelle, is a central pillar of the story. Their bond provides Aṅụrị with the strength to fight against Ophelia’s manipulation. The tender moments they share underscore the novel's exploration of family and the lengths we go to protect those we love. Similarly, Aṅụrị’s friendships with Simi and Loki offer a poignant depiction of chosen family: "To be loved, truly loved, is to be seen, and to be seen is to limit the ability to hide, and Simi and Loki loved Aṅụrị in the purest way.”

Aṅụrị’s journey also delves into themes of cultural heritage and identity. Raised by her Igbo father in the UK, she feels a disconnection from her roots, exacerbated by Ophelia’s whitewashed influence. A visit to her maternal grandparents in Nigeria becomes a turning point, grounding her in her heritage and reminding her of who she truly is. This exploration of cultural identity adds depth to Aṅụrị’s character and underscores the importance of understanding one’s roots.

Sobriety is another significant theme in the novel. Aṅụrị’s struggle with alcoholism is portrayed with raw honesty, reflecting the ways in which she attempts to cope with her trauma. Her journey towards sobriety is intertwined with her fight for autonomy, illustrating her resilience and determination to reclaim her life.

Ophelia, with her "momfluencer" facade, represents the darker side of social media. Nwabineli critiques the attention economy, where validation and praise become a toxic cycle, and popularity translates into financial gain: "Social media has its own currency, validation and praise could be dangerous and addictive, and as it had with Ophelia, when popularity translates into financial returns, the drug becomes more potent.”

As Aṅụrị navigates the chaos of the trial, she remains anchored by her friends and her budding relationship with Christian, an Igbo man who also helps her reconnect with her heritage. Despite numerous attempts by Ophelia to buy her silence, Aṅụrị's tenacity shines through. By the end of the novel, she successfully reclaims her image, voice, and agency, emerging stronger and more self-assured.

"Allow Me to Introduce Myself" is a powerful and timely narrative that resonates deeply in our digital age. Nwabineli’s masterful storytelling and evocative prose make this novel a standout, an absolute five-star read, and a top contender for my favorite 2024 read. Another must-read for my diverse lit-fic lovers!

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for Children, Fans of Novels Critiquing Social Media Culture, Readers Interested in Family Dynamics and Legal Battles, Those Who Appreciate Poignant and Lyrical Prose, Fans of R.F. Kuang’s "Yellowface" and Akwaeke Emezi.

🔑 Key Themes: Exploitation and Agency in Social Media, Family Dynamics and Chosen Family, Cultural Heritage and Identity, Sobriety and Self-Rediscovery, Legal Battles for Personal Autonomy.