Lagoon by Nnedi Okorafor

Our Summer (beach) read (it is a Large Book): Lagoon!

Lagos, the Nigerian capital, is chosen by aliens as their new habitat. The aliens arrive by water—across the lagoon—and are "shape-shifters." They can alter their own forms, as well as the forms of those they encounter; they simply rearrange the elements of their physical appearance. I do not want to give away too much, for this novel is extremely suspenseful. Three individuals—an oceanographer, a pop star, and a soldier—are selected by the newcomers to conduct diplomatic negotiations with them. For, naturally, not all Nigerians are quite so welcoming. Chaos ensues. The terminally ill, absent President is flown in. The author is an American of Nigerian descent; she not only weaves together contemporary questions regarding Nigeria's political structures with its diverse population and Yoruba beliefs, but also indirectly highlights what might happen should the beings that inhabit the waters decide to strike back in response to pollution.