Paper short abstract:

The article is an investigation of Okadabooks, a Nigerian e-book publishing and reading platform in the light of similar innovations like Amazon. The article explores the relationship between writing online, self-publishing, e-book publishing and what it means for the Nigerian publishing industry.

Paper long abstract:

This article examines the book distribution challenge in Nigeria and explores the e-book publishing approach as a solution for local book production even as it ensures that books are published more easily, books are more affordable and available even as writers get paid for their talent. It also attempts an in-depth investigation of Okadabooks, a Nigerian e-book publishing and reading platform in the light of similar innovations like Amazon. The article explores the relationship between writing online, self-publishing, e-book publishing and what it means for the Nigerian publishing industry. Through interviews as well as analysis of the operations of Okadabooks, the article argues that Okadabooks is opening up spaces for homegrown Nigerian literary talent. Finally, the article highlights Okadabooks' online and offline efforts—partnerships, establishment of writing prizes, social media campaigns and community social responsibility efforts—to reach an emerging community of readers and writers online in a way that opens Nigerian literature to new reading publics.