Set against the backdrop of the Niger Delta, this novel follows the lives of four childhood friends (Amaibi, Doughboy, Kaniye, and Tubo) whose paths diverge as they grow older. Despite their different journeys, fate reunites them.
The opening chapter of this book follows the kidnap of a white oil worker by a  notorious ethnic militia  headed by Doughboy, known for oil bunkery, kidnapping and bombing of oil installations. 

Following the kidnapping , Imperial Oil Company arranges a ransom deal and turns to Tubo, their Public and Community Relations Officer, to handle it who is also a childhood friend of Doughboy. But there's a catch: Doughboy will only negotiate through Amaibi, the third childhood friend now an outspoken activist and university lecturer. When Amaibi is unexpectedly arrested, the group’s fourth friend, Kaniye, a lawyer is called upon to take up his case.

This book explores powerful themes like injustice, corruption, greed, nepotism and the lasting impact of colonialism on the Niger Delta. Chimeka Garricks vividly portrays how the discovery of oil in the 1970s brought devastation  to the people of Asiama. The narrative highlights the environmental degradation caused by gas flaring and oil spills, which destroyed the livelihoods of local fishermen. At the same time, it exposes the greed of community elders and leaders who sought to enrich themselves at the expense of their people. 

The title Tomorrow Died Yesterday is powerfully encapsulated in one of the most striking lines in the book:
“You still don’t get it, Kaniye, do you? There is no future for the children of the Niger Delta. Their tomorrow is already dead. It died yesterday.”

This line not only captures the essence of the narrative but also underscores the grim reality that Chimeka Garricks masterfully portrays through the intertwined lives of the four childhood friends. It reflects a deep commentary on the social, political, and environmental decay that has plagued the Niger Delta, a decay so entrenched that the future itself has been sacrificed in the past.

The author uses personal stories to mirror national tragedy, revealing how corruption, exploitation, and neglect have robbed an entire generation of hope. This is not just a fictional warning; it echoes the sad and ongoing reality in present-day Nigeria.

The writing style of this book is engaging, as it allows readers to experience the story from multiple characters' points of view.

My first experience reading this book was incredibly enjoyable, partly because of its short chapters, which I absolutely love in a novel. The structure made the reading experience smooth and engaging, allowing me to stay immersed in the story without feeling overwhelmed.

I’ll rate it a solid five stars.⭐