Tinkim is a village situated outside Zinder state, in the country of Niger, essentially positioned between Nigeria and Niger. The village boasts beauty and a pleasant living environment, with its residents known for their generosity and hospitality. However, the misfortune in the lives of Kuluwa Saida and her family has cast a shadow over the village.

Early marriages are a norm in this community, and Saida was no exception. She was married off at the age of eighteen to Ado, a fish seller. Despite Kuluwa’s polite demeanor and fulfilling her duties as a wife, patience is not her strong suit.

Their life is marked by fluctuations—today might be good, but tomorrow uncertain. The struggle revolves around scarcity, be it food, clothing, or other essentials. Their situation worsens when they welcome twins, Hassana and Husseina, a blessing marred by misfortune as their mother tragically passes away.

Ado suggests naming one of the twins “A’indo,” causing further distress. The twins, Hassana and Husseina, grow up with distinct personalities. Hassana is more composed, while Husseina is known for stirring trouble.

As the twins approach seventeen, their troublesome reputation has caused prospective suitors to avoid marriage alliances. Even their father struggles to find suitable matches for them in the village.

The plot takes a turn when the father’s sister, who resides in the city of Zinder, visits. A’indo’s presence becomes a source of chaos, leading her father to suggest that she might find a husband if she leaves the village. Tearfully, the twins separate as A’indo heads to the city, while Husseina stays back, still yearning for marriage.

A’indo’s arrival in the city brings a change of scenery, but her mischievous nature continues. She encounters rejection in several households until she reaches the home of Alhaji Sanmani Hamshakkin, a wealthy businessman with five children.

Alhassan, the eldest son, is a soldier working abroad. He is known for his seriousness and rarely exhibits laughter. Idrissa and Khalipha, studying at ages twenty-five and twenty-three, respectively, follow him. The youngest son, who is twenty-two, got married in Niamey two years earlier. Alhaji Sanmani Hamshakkin’s family becomes intertwined with A’indo’s fate as she enters their household.

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