Summary for Chapter - 1 | English Language for JAMB PDF Download

About the Author

Khadija Abubakar Jalli is an entrepreneur and the CEO of She's Boutique Afrique, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics Education. She is happily married with children.

About the Book

"The Life Changer" is Khadija Abubakar Jalli's debut novel, which transforms the narrative of life on campus. Infused with underlying optimism, the book embraces hope and redemption in the lives of young people. Through this publication, Jalli showcases the resurgence of the female voice in African literature. The story revolves around Salma and her roommates, as they navigate the challenging and complex waters of academia during their time at the university.

The chapter begins with the narrator, a mother, overhearing her daughters laughing and telling a story. Her daughter, Bint, shares a story about her encounter with a Social Studies teacher who asked the class how to say "Good Morning" in French. Bint confidently responds with "Bonjour" and asks the teacher how to say "that's very good" in French, which stumps the teacher. The teacher leaves the classroom and brings back the French Mistress to answer Bint's question. The class applauds Bint, and the mother joins her daughters in the room, happy and proud of Bint's storytelling.

The mother explains that she often checks her children's room to teach them about personal hygiene and spend time with them. She values mutual trust and respect. The mother and children discuss the teacher's lack of knowledge and the importance of not pushing teachers beyond their expertise.

The mother's son, Omar, arrives home and shares the news that he has been admitted to study Law at the university. The siblings tease each other about Omar's admission and nickname him "My Learned Brother." The mother suggests celebrating and buying a new phone for Omar but decides to wait for their father's return. They move outside to sit under a mango tree due to the heat, and the mother buys drinks for everyone.

Bint asks her mother to tell a story, but the mother hesitates as she wonders which story to share. She considers sharing her university experiences but decides to let the conversation flow naturally. The chapter ends with the anticipation of the father's return and the mother's plan to talk to Omar about his admission.

In conclusion, Chapter One of "The Life Changer" sets the stage by introducing the family and their anticipation for the father's return. It highlights Bint's engaging storytelling abilities, Omar's admission to study Law, and the playful banter between the siblings. The chapter provides insights into the mother's parenting style, emphasizing the importance of hygiene, mutual trust, respect, and celebrating achievements.