The Boy With the Black Luggage

Michael Afolabi's story begins in a small city in western Nigeria, but it takes him all over the world. Wherever he goes, he carries his trademark black suitcase with him with his few belongings. The Boy with the Black Luggage is a heartrending, authentic account of a young man constantly on the move, shuffled amongst family members and friends, and on a quest to discover where he belongs. From an abusive home life and switching between various schools and institutions to joining the military, Michael's story covers a range of countries, climates, and social circles. Michael's story also speaks to the power of healthy transitions, the agency each of us has to stand up for our wellbeing, and the influence of loved ones who stand in the gap for us and advocate for our best.