Simi Bedford facts for kids

Simi Bedford is a talented writer from Nigeria who lives in Britain. She is known for her interesting novels. Her first book, Yoruba Girl Dancing, came out in 1991. This book tells the story of a young Nigerian girl who goes to England for school.

Her second novel, Not With Silver, was published in 2007. Simi Bedford's books often explore themes of culture and history.

About Simi Bedford

Simi Bedford was born in Lagos, Nigeria. Her parents came from Sierra Leone. Her great-grandparents were originally from Nigeria. They were rescued from a slave ship a long time ago.

Simi spent her early childhood in Lagos. When she was six years old, she moved to Britain for her education. She attended a boarding school there.

Education and Career

Simi Bedford studied Law at Durham University. After finishing her studies, she worked in media. She was a radio presenter and also a television researcher.

She lived in London, where she raised three children. She is now divorced from her husband, Martin Bedford, who is an artist. However, they remain good friends. They even share a house in Devon.

Her Books

Simi Bedford has written two main novels. Both books have received good reviews. They offer readers a look into different worlds and experiences.

Yoruba Girl Dancing

Simi Bedford's first novel, Yoruba Girl Dancing, was published in 1991. This book is partly based on her own life experiences. It tells the story of a Nigerian girl's education in Britain.

A reviewer for Washington Post called the book "beautifully written." They also said it was "painfully honest" about what it's like to move to a new country. The book was even turned into a five-part series for BBC Radio 4 in 1991. It was read by Adjoa Andoh. Parts of the novel are also included in the 2019 book New Daughters of Africa.

Not With Silver

Her second novel, Not With Silver, came out in 2007. This book is a historical fiction story. It is set in West Africa in the mid-1700s. The story explores themes of slavery and royal secrets.

Simi Bedford used her own family history to write Not With Silver. The book is special because it shows what life was like for people in Africa before they were enslaved. A reviewer for The Spectator praised the book for being very honest. They said it was a "brave and uncomfortable labour of love."