’Pemi Aguda's 'One Leg on Earth'
’Pemi Aguda joins the podcast to talk about about her debut novel, 'One Leg on Earth,' agency, and her background in architecture
By LARB Radio HourJuly 10, 2026
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’Pemi Aguda's 'One Leg on Earth'
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Medaya Ocher and Eric Newman speak with the Nigerian writer ’Pemi Aguda about her debut novel, One Leg on Earth. Set in Lagos, a young woman is at the start of a promising new architecture career working on an ultra-luxury development when she becomes pregnant after a one night stand. As she's coming to grips with what it will mean to be a mother, a rash of pregnant Lagosians suddenly are drowning themselves. As she navigates this disturbing mystery, secrets about the city's past, present, and future are revealed.
Drawing on Aguda's background in architecture and land development, One Leg on Earth explores the tensions between urban expansion and historical erasure, as well as the relationship between place, the body, and agency.
One Leg on Earth is the LARB Book Club selection for summer. Join today to become a member of the book club, and experience the other perks of supporting LARB, including a subscription to the LARB Quarterly journal and exclusive events other members and LARB staff.
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The LARB Radio Hour is hosted by Eric Newman, Medaya Ocher, and Kate Wolf.