Ezioma Kalu, widely known as Bookish Ezioma, has grown into one of the most consistent
and trusted voices in Nigeria’s online reading culture. She is a writer, journalist, book influencer,
and associate producer at News Central TV. But more than the titles she holds, it is the way she makes
readers fall in love with books again that sets her apart.
Early Life and the Beginning of a Reading Journey
Her reading life began quietly. She grew up on lantern storybooks, Nani Boi titles,
Chike and The River, and the classic literature texts her brothers used for WASSCE.
These early stories laid the foundation. Then she met African literature.
When she read Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus, she saw places she knew,
feelings she understood. It was the moment literature became personal—shaping everything that followed.
Academic Path and Career Growth
Ezioma studied Public Administration at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
After school, her world expanded into media and storytelling. She found a professional home
at News Central TV, where she works as an associate producer.
In the literary ecosystem, she built a reputation as a calm, intentional, and trustworthy reviewer.
Her blog, Bookish Pixie, reflects her voice: honest, thoughtful, and empathetic.
She writes in a way that makes readers slow down and feel something.
Reading Feats That Captured the Community
In 2022, she read 100 books.
In 2023, she read 122 books.
In 2024, she crossed 150 books.
These numbers made her a phenomenon. Each year, her reading lists sparked admiration, debate,
and curiosity. People wondered how she sustained such a pace while working full-time.
Through the noise and fascination, she kept going—choosing to honour the books above everything else.
Writing, Reviews, and Literary Influence
Across Instagram, X, and her blog, she shares reviews rooted in emotion, honesty, and reflection.
She has a rare gift for communicating what a book does to the heart, not just the mind.
Her writing and essays have appeared in
Isele Magazine, Libretto Publishers, Kalahari Review,
Writers Space Africa Nigeria, Terror House Magazine, Afritondo, and other respected platforms.
She was the first runner-up in the May 2022 edition of the Challenging the Writer’s contest.
She also serves as a flash fiction editor and mentor at Writers Space Africa
and works as the assistant coordinator of the Nigerian chapter.
Her Philosophy: Reading as a Lifestyle
Ezioma believes reading should feel cool and accessible.
In a 2025 interview with Black Boy Review, she spoke about how books shaped her empathy
and how she learned to ignore online criticism.
She believes parents should read with their children.
Adults should talk about books the same way others talk about football.
In her world, reading is not a chore—it is a lifestyle.
Creative Work and Ongoing Projects
Her creative works continue to appear on respected platforms. She writes from Enugu,
taking inspiration from conversations, music, films, and daily human experiences.
She remains open to collaborations and works with authors and publishers who want honest,
structured reviews and impactful book promotions.
A Literary Voice That Steadies the Online Community
More than anything, Ezioma is a quiet force. She shows that consistency in reading and storytelling
can inspire a generation. She holds a space that feels warm, thoughtful, and deeply rooted
in love for literature.
She is one of the voices reminding us that stories still matter.
