The stories I worked on for Naira Stories Magazine were thoughtful, rich, and emotionally honest. Each one had a clear voice and message, offering a fresh perspective on real-life issues. The writers showed strong talent and creativity, blending imagination with everyday experiences.
I found the stories engaging and rewarding to edit. I would rate them highly for their originality, clarity, and depth. It was a pleasure to help shape the pieces and be part of such a meaningful project.
One of the stories I edited showed how silence in the face of wrongdoing can cause real harm, reminding us of the importance of speaking up. Another explored how migration and change can reshape who we are.
I hope readers walk away with more empathy and awareness. These stories offer quiet but powerful lessons on courage, belonging, and kindness… things we all need more of, both in personal life and as a society.
Fiction makes difficult topics more relatable by turning them into human stories. It allows readers to feel and reflect, not just think. This emotional connection can shift perspectives and inspire change.
Literary magazines can play a key role in helping Nigerians see the value of storytelling by publishing diverse voices, promoting local talent, and making literature more accessible. With time and effort, they can help rebuild a strong culture of reading and reflection.
Working with Naira Stories was smooth and thoughtful. The team was receptive, professional, and clear in communication, which made editing enjoyable. I appreciated the care taken with each story.
To help the magazine grow, I would recommend more audience engagement through readings, social media, and conversations around each issue. This will help readers feel more connected and invested in the magazine’s journey. With time, it can become a key space for important literary conversations.
Peculiar Okoro is a writer, editor, and poet. She has worked extensively as a ghostwriter across nonfiction, academic, and memoir genres. A graduate of the University of Benin, where she studied English and Literature, she brings care and clarity to every stage of the writing process. Her editorial journey began during NYSC at Straight Gate Publishing, followed by a role at BookTraction, where she helped refine manuscripts for emerging and established authors. As a poet, she writes privately, exploring themes of memory, identity, and inner life. Peculiar is passionate about language as a tool for truth and connection, and continues to support storytellers in shaping thoughtful, authentic, and impactful work.
