For students preparing for the JAMB Literature in English exam, having the right textbooks is very important. The recommended books cover a range of literature topics, from anthologies to critical texts. These books will help students understand different aspects of English literature, including poetry, plays, novels, and literary analysis.
In the 2026/2027 JAMB syllabus, certain anthologies and critical texts are recommended for study. Below, we’ve listed these recommended books, including a brief overview of what each type of book offers to help students succeed in the JAMB exam.
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Why Use JAMB Recommended Textbooks?
These books have been carefully selected to help students get a good understanding of literature. By using them, students can explore various literary works, learn about important literary techniques, and develop strong analytical skills. The recommended textbooks cover a broad range of authors, literary forms, and historical contexts, making them helpful for understanding the depth and variety of literature.
JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Literature in English 2026/2027
Anthologies
The anthologies recommended for JAMB contain collections of poetry, plays, and stories. They give students exposure to both African and international literature. Here are the key anthologies recommended:
| S/NO | TEXTBOOK |
|---|---|
| 1 | Obafemi, O., and Agoi (eds) Of Shadows and Rainbows – Musings in Times of Covid (An Anthology of Poems, Plays, and Short Stories), PEN Nigeria, Online |
| 2 | Hayward, J. (ed.) (1968) The Penguin Book of English Verse, London: Penguin |
| 3 | Johnson, R., Ker, D, Maduka, C., Obafemi, O (eds.) (1996) New Poetry from Africa, Ibadan: UP Plc |
| 4 | Kermode, F. (1964) Oxford Anthology of English Literature, Vol. II, London: OUP |
| 5 | Nduke Ofiono and Odoh Diego Okenyodo (eds) Camouflage: Best of Contemporary Writing from Nigeria, an anthology of new Nigerian writers, mace books association, 2021, New edition |
| 6 | Parker, E.W. (ed.) (1980) A Pageant of Longer Poems, London: Longman |
| 7 | Senanu, K. E., and Vincent, T. (eds.) (1993) A Selection of African Poetry, Lagos: Longman |
| 8 | Soyinka, W. (ed.) (1987) Poems of Black Africa, Ibadan: Heinemann |
Overview of Key Anthologies
- Of Shadows and Rainbows – Musings in Times of Covid: This anthology captures poems, plays, and short stories written during the COVID-19 pandemic. It offers students insight into recent works of African literature and reflects the emotions and challenges of the time.
- The Penguin Book of English Verse: Edited by John Hayward, this book contains classic English poetry, providing an understanding of the development of English verse over centuries.
- New Poetry from Africa: This collection offers a selection of modern African poetry. It introduces students to the themes, styles, and voices shaping African poetry today.
- Camouflage: Best of Contemporary Writing from Nigeria: This anthology showcases new voices in Nigerian literature, including poetry and prose. It’s a great resource for exploring Nigerian perspectives and cultural themes.
- Poems of Black Africa: Edited by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, this collection brings together powerful African poems. It provides students with a broad view of African poetry, exploring identity, culture, and history.
Critical Texts
The critical texts recommended for JAMB focus on literary terms, analysis, and understanding unseen texts. These books help students develop the skills they need to analyze poems, novels, and other forms of literature. Below are the critical texts recommended by JAMB:
| S/NO | TEXTBOOK |
|---|---|
| 1 | Abrams, M. H. (1981) A Glossary of Literary Terms (4th Edition), New York: Holt Rinehart and Winston |
| 2 | Emeaba, O. E. (1982) A Dictionary of Literature, Aba: Inteks Press |
| 3 | Murphy, M. J. (1972) Understanding Unseen: An Introduction to English Poetry and English Novel for Overseas Students, George Allen and Unwin Ltd |
Overview of Key Critical Texts
- A Glossary of Literary Terms: This book by M. H. Abrams explains key literary terms in an easy-to-understand way. It’s an important resource for students who want to understand the language of literature and analyze texts effectively.
- A Dictionary of Literature: Written by O. E. Emeaba, this book covers a wide range of literary terms and definitions. It’s a useful reference for understanding the meanings of literary terms commonly used in exams and literary analysis.
- Understanding Unseen: This book by M. J. Murphy is designed to help students understand poetry and novels that they may not have seen before. It provides tips on how to read and analyze unseen texts, which is very helpful for the JAMB exam.
Conclusion
The JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Literature in English provide students with a strong foundation in both African and English literature. By studying these anthologies and critical texts, students can deepen their understanding of literary works and improve their analytical skills. These books cover various genres, styles, and literary periods, which will help students prepare well for the JAMB Literature in English exam. Use these textbooks as guides, and practice analyzing different forms of literature to gain confidence for the exam.