JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Literature in English 2026/2027

Literature in English is one of the most engaging subjects in the JAMB UTME, but it can also be quite challenging. It is not just about memorizing notes or definitions. You are expected to truly understand stories, break down poems, analyze drama texts, and identify different literary techniques. To perform well, you need the right textbooks, ones that explain ideas in a simple way and give you enough examples and practice questions to build confidence.

Literature in English can be one of your strongest subjects if you prepare with the right materials. The JAMB recommended textbooks for Literature in English 2026/2027 are structured to guide you step by step, from understanding basic literary concepts to mastering exam-style questions.

Importance of the JAMB Literature Set Texts

Aside the general textbooks, JAMB usually prescribes specific set texts for Literature in English. These include selected African and non-African prose, drama, and poetry. Ensure that:

1. Read each set text fully, not just summaries
2. Understand major themes and characters
3. Practice answering questions based on past JAMB patterns

Even if the texts change slightly each year, the recommended textbooks above help you understand how to approach any set text.

JAMB 2026/2027 Recommended Literature in English Textbooks

1. DRAMA

African Drama

1. Harvest of Corruption

• Author(s): Frank Ogodo Ogbeche
• Description: A play that explores corruption, abuse of power, and societal decay, offering vivid scenes relevant for thematic and character analysis.

Non-African Drama

2. Othello

• Author(s): William Shakespeare
• Description: A classic tragedy centered on jealousy, manipulation, and betrayal, rich in literary devices and character conflicts.

2. PROSE

African Prose

3. Faceless

• Author(s): Amma Darko
• Description: A socially conscious novel highlighting child abuse and political neglect, ideal for questions on themes and narrative techniques.

Non-African Prose

4. Native Son

• Author(s): Richard Wright
• Description: A gripping novel that examines race, poverty, and societal pressures, offering strong material for analysis of character motivation.

3. POETRY

African Poetry

5. Vanity

• Author(s): Birago Diop
• Description: A reflective poem on ancestral wisdom, moral lessons, and human behaviour.

6. Ambush

• Author(s): Gbemisola Adeoti
• Description: A poem addressing leadership failure, societal traps, and political criticism.

7. Piano and Drums

• Author(s): Gabriel Okara
• Description: A contrast between traditional and modern influences, useful for questions on imagery and symbolism.

8. The Dining Table

• Author(s): Gbanabam Hallowell
• Description: A vivid portrayal of military oppression and citizens’ suffering through striking metaphors.

9. The Panic of Growing Older

• Author(s): Lenrie Peters
• Description: A poem exploring ageing, unfulfilled ambitions, and the passage of time.

10. The Anvil and the Hammer

• Author(s): Kofi Awoonor
• Description: A poem that blends tradition and modern identity, rich in metaphor and cultural references.

Non-African Poetry

11. Crossing the Bar

• Author(s): Alfred Tennyson
• Description: A contemplative poem about death, hope, and spiritual transition.

12. The Pulley

• Author(s): George Herbert
• Description: A metaphysical reflection on human nature, divine gifts, and spiritual purpose.

13. The School Boy

• Author(s): William Blake
• Description: A poem criticizing rigid education systems and celebrating natural childhood freedom.

14. The Proud King

• Author(s): William Morris
• Description: A narrative poem showing the downfall of pride and the journey toward humility.

4. ANTHOLOGIES

15. Naked Soles

• Author(s): Gbemisola Adeoti (2005)
• Description: A poetry collection capturing social realities, emotions, and personal reflections.

16. The Penguin Book of English Verse

• Author(s): J. Hayward (ed.) (1968)
• Description: A wide selection of English poems essential for understanding style and historical transitions.

17. New Poetry from Africa

• Author(s): R. Johnson et al. (eds.) (1996)
• Description: A diverse compilation of African poetic voices with themes useful for UTME interpretation.

18. Oxford Anthology of English Literature, Vol. II

• Author(s): F. Kermode et al. (1964)
• Description: Features notable English literary works and commentary helpful for contextual analysis.

19. West African Verse

• Author(s): D. Nwoga (ed.) (1967)
• Description: A foundational anthology of West African poems often used in exam preparation.

20. A Selection of African Poetry

• Author(s): K. E. Senanu & T. Vincent (eds.) (1993)
• Description: Contains key African poems studied across secondary schools and UTME syllabuses.

21. Poems of Black Africa

• Author(s): Wole Soyinka (ed.) (1987)
• Description: A robust anthology celebrating African experiences, voices, and styles.

5. CRITICAL TEXTS

22. A Glossary of Literary Terms

• Author(s): M. H. Abrams (1981)
• Description: Explains essential literary terms, devices, and concepts needed for UTME theory questions.

23. A Dictionary of Literature

• Author(s): O. E. Emeaba (1982)
• Description: Offers quick definitions and explanations of literary concepts for revision.

24. Understanding Unseen

• Author(s): M. J. Murphy (1972)
• Description: Guides students on analyzing unseen poetry and prose, improving interpretation skills.

Frequently Asked Questions