Welcome to our guide on JAMB recommended textbooks for Literature in English 2026/2027 where we will be helping you as a UTME candidate score high in this subject by relying on books officially listed in the JAMB syllabus, because those texts reflect the exact plays, poems, and prose works the board uses when setting questions.
Another advantage of using these approved texts is clarity, as one gets to study without confusion concerning wrong editions or irrelevant materials. They give you the right plotlines, character developments, literary devices, and stylistic features that JAMB expects every UTME candidate to understand.
Recommended Post: JAMB 2026/2027 Syllabus for Literature in English is Out | Download PDF
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 (FAQs)
Are these the exact Literature in English texts JAMB will use for 2026/2027?
Yes, these works appear in the official JAMB syllabus and are used to set UTME questions.
Do I need to read all the poems and plays?
It is advisable because questions can come from any recommended text.
Can I read summaries instead of the full books?
Summaries help but cannot replace the full texts, especially for questions on tone, mood, symbolism, and specific lines.
Are anthologies compulsory for the exam?
You may not be asked directly from anthologies, but they deepen your understanding of themes and poetic devices.
Where should I start reading from?
Many candidates begin with the drama and prose texts before moving to poetry.
Are older editions of these books acceptable?
Yes, as long as the content matches the version used in schools and aligns with the syllabus.
Will the same recommended texts apply to Direct Entry candidates?
Yes, because DE candidates also take Literature courses based on these foundational texts.
How many months is enough to cover all the books?
With steady reading, 2–3 months is enough to complete the texts and revise effectively.
Last Updated on January 21, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
With over a decade of experience in education journalism, JAMB-GOV.ORG has become a trusted voice in providing relevant and comprehensive JAMB news reporting that matter most to students and educators nationwide.
