Preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) requires thorough study, especially for subjects like Literature in English. This subject tests candidates’ knowledge of literary works, terms, principles, and appreciation. To excel, students must follow the JAMB syllabus for Literature in English 2025/2026 and study the recommended textbooks.
In this guide, we’ll outline the JAMB Literature in English syllabus, recommended textbooks, and prescribed texts for the 2025/2026 UTME.
JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2025/2026
The JAMB Literature in English syllabus is designed to guide candidates on the key topics and literary works to study. It covers four major areas:
- Drama
- Prose
- Poetry
- General Literary Principles
Each section includes subtopics, objectives, and recommended texts. The syllabus ensures students focus on the right materials for the exam.
How to Download the JAMB Literature Syllabus
You can download the JAMB Literature in English syllabus PDF from the official JAMB website or accredited educational portals. Studying the syllabus helps you understand the exam structure and frequently tested areas.
JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Literature in English 2025/2026
To prepare effectively, JAMB has approved the following textbooks and anthologies for Literature in English:
Anthologies & Poetry Collections
- Gbemisola, A. (2005) – Naked Soles
- Hayward, J. (ed.) (1968) – The Penguin Book of English Verse
- Johnson, R. et al. (eds.) (1996) – New Poetry from Africa
- Kermode, F. et al. (1964) – Oxford Anthology of English Literature, Vol. II
- Nwoga, D. (ed.) (1967) – West African Verse
- Senanu, K.E. & Vincent, T. (eds.) (1993) – A Selection of African Poetry
- Soyinka, W. (ed.) (1987) – Poems of Black Africa
Critical Texts & Literary Guides
- Abrams, M.H. (1981) – A Glossary of Literary Terms
- Emeaba, O.E. (1982) – A Dictionary of Literature
- Murphy, M.J. (1972) – Understanding Unseen: An Introduction to English Poetry and English Novel for Overseas Students
JAMB Prescribed Texts for Literature in English 2025/2026
JAMB also specifies compulsory texts for Drama, Prose, and Poetry. Candidates will be tested on one text from each category.
Drama
African Drama
- Frank Ogodo Ogbeche – Harvest of Corruption
Non-African Drama
- William Shakespeare – Othello
Prose
African Prose
- Amma Darko – Faceless
Non-African Prose
- Richard Wright – Native Son
Poetry
African Poetry
- Birago Diop – Vanity
- Gbemisola Adeoti – Ambush
- Gabriel Okara – Piano and Drums
- Gbanabam Hallowell – The Dining Table
- Lenrie Peter – The Panic of Growing Older
- Kofi Awoonor – The Anvil and the Hammer
Non-African Poetry
- Alfred Tennyson – Crossing the Bar
- George Herbert – The Pulley
- William Blake – The School Boy
- William Morris – The Proud King
How to Study Effectively for JAMB Literature in English
- Read the Prescribed Texts Thoroughly – Analyze themes, characters, and literary devices.
- Practice Past Questions – Familiarize yourself with JAMB’s question patterns.
- Study Literary Terms – Understand metaphors, similes, irony, and other devices.
- Join Study Groups – Discussing texts with peers enhances comprehension.
- Take Mock Exams – Test your knowledge under timed conditions.
For more JAMB updates, past questions, and study tips, visit our blog regularly!
