An Introduction to African Literature

I don’t know about you girls but I love to read in my free time. I am an avid reader and recently, I’ve decided to read more books by African authors. Reading is knowledge and it’s important for us to know about our native countries, their culture, values and of course, their history. That’s why I’ve selected a few books written by African authors that I enjoyed and that I think you would too. 

1. Americanah – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

This novel follows Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who moves to the US for university and struggles with issues of race, identity, and belonging. While building a successful blog about race in America, she reflects on her past relationship with her sister Obinze, who, unable to join her in the US ends up living undocumented in the UK. Ifemelu ultimately decides to return to Nigeria, where she and Obinze must confront their unresolved feelings.

 

 

2. Born a Crime – Trevor Noah

This memoir by comedian Trevor Noah recounts his experiences growing up in apartheid and post-apartheid South Africa. As a mixed child born to a Black South-African mother and a white Swiss father, his mere existence was illegal. Noah shares stories of his childhood, his mother’s resilience and his struggles with identity, poverty, as well as racism. His book provides a compelling and personal look at South Africa’s complex history.

3. Ce que le Jour Doit à la Nuit – Yasmina Khadra 

Set in colonial Algeria, this novel follows Younes, a boy from a poor Algerian family who is sent to live with his wealthy, European-educated uncle. Growing up amongst the French settlers, Younes struggles with his identity as he navigates love, friendship and political tensions [that led to Algeria’s independence]. His love for Emilie, a French woman, becomes complicated by his divided loyalties and the brutal realities of the war.

 

 

4. His Only Wife – Peace Adzo Medie 

This contemporary novel set in Ghana follows Afi, a young woman from a modest background who is pressured into marrying Elikem, a wealthy man she barely knows in order to be able to financially support her family. The problem, he’s already in love with another woman. As Afi moves to Accra with Elikem and her life begins to change, she starts questioning the expectations placed upon women such as herself. 

 

 

5. Desert Flower – Waris Dirie & Cathleen Miller

This memoir tells the story of Waris Dirie, a Somali model and activist who escaped an arranged marriage at 13 years old and later became a global voice against female genital mutilation. From her nomadic childhood in the Somali desert to working as a maid in London and ultimately becoming a successful model, Dirie’s life is a story of resilience, survival and advocacy. 

These five books are a good introduction if you ever want to get into African literature. They tell important and powerful stories about our people and the challenges they faced. From sexism and misogyny, to racism and colonialism, the themes found in those books are all too relevant to a contemporary audience. 

 

 

BEYOND THE PAIN

Although the themes found in these books are somewhat dark and serious, it does not mean that our ancestors have only suffered and that africans haven’t known joy or peace. Yes our people have been through a lot, but we have also experienced a range of positive emotions. In fact, there are countless other books by African authors about more lighthearted stories. 

From “Happily Ever After” by Mary Mwangi, “Love Next Door” by Amina Thula, to “Daughters of Nri” by Reni K. Amayo, there are many fun books written by African authors that do not focus on themes of colonialism, racism, sexism, poverty etc. 

CONCLUSION 

African literature is vast and diverse, so whether you’re drawn to books that tackle historical and social issues or you prefer lighthearted stories of romance and fantasy, there’s something for everyone. I hope that this list inspires you to explore the work of African authors and immerse yourself in the large variety of stories our community has to offer.