I have been obsessed with afro-lit books for several years now. I think it began after college when I read stories like half of a yellow sun and Americanah by Chimamanda. In this blog post, I wanted to share some of my all-time favorite books by African authors – a selection of works that have stayed with me long after I turned or listened to(audible) the last page. From stories set in Africa to ones set in the diaspora, these are stories that have touched my heart, made me smile or laugh, or have just been thoroughly entertaining. If you haven’t already read my first post compiling some of my favorite books by black authors definitely check it out too!
Ties that tether by Jane Igharo:
This novel is about a Nigerian woman who is expected to marry within her community based on a promise she made to her father on his deathbed. However, she meets a man that is everything BUT Nigerian and falls in love. As she navigates these challenges, she begins to discover her own strength and resilience and learns to chart a new path forward in life. Ties that tether is a heartwarming love story that explores themes of identity, cultural conflict, and the power of healing.
Honey & Spice by Bolu Babalola:
“This novel follows the story of a young Black British woman who is not looking for love, but unexpectedly gets caught up in a fake relationship with a man she had previously warned her radio show audience about. The book is full of passion, humor, and heart and explores the complexities of love and relationships.
Wahala by Nikki May:
In Wahala, the lives of three inseparable friends living in London are turned upside down when a wealthy new acquaintance named Isobel inserts herself into their lives, causing a ripple effect of changes and challenges. The book, which is both entertaining and thought-provoking, follows the characters as they navigate this “trouble,” or “wahala,” and deals with themes of friendship, wealth, and heartbreak. If you enjoy character-driven thrillers and books that are impossible to put down, Wahala is the perfect read for you
Dele Weds Destiny by Tomi Obaro:
Three former college friends in Nigeria reunite in Lagos for the first time in thirty years and rediscover the strength and resilience of their female friendship in this uplifting novel.
Yinka, Where is your Huzband by Lizzie Blackburn:
This hilarious and heartwarming novel follows the misadventures of Yinka, a Nigerian woman living in London who is desperate to find a husband.
The Sweetest Remedy by Jane Igharo:
After traveling to Nigeria for her father’s funeral, a woman meets her extravagant family for the first time and discovers a new love interest. Along the way, she also learns more about herself and finds parts of her identity that were previously unknown.
His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie:
In Ghana, Afi Tekple is a seamstress who has been convinced by her mother to marry a wealthy businessman named Elikem in order to provide financial security for her family. Although Afi is smart and pretty, she does not know Elikem and has been chosen by his family as a potential partner in an attempt to distract him from a current relationship they do not approve of. When Afi moves from her small hometown to the capital city of Accra, she is not prepared for the changes that come with living in a place of wealth and sophistication. Despite her reservations, Afi agrees to the marriage in order to help her mother, but begins to question whether she must follow through with it.
The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré:
The Girl with the Louding Voice is a novel about a young Nigerian girl named Adunni who grows up in a rural village and dreams of getting an education. Adunni’s ultimate goal is to find her “louding voice” and speak up for herself, but she faces many challenges and obstacles along the way. Despite these challenges, Adunni remains determined to escape poverty and create a better future for herself, and to help other girls like her do the same. The novel is a moving and inspiring tale about the power of perseverance and the importance of fighting for one’s dreams.
Lagoon by Nnedi Okorafor:
In this science fiction novel, a group of people in Lagos, Nigeria are transformed by an otherworldly force and must grapple with their newfound powers and the danger that comes with them.
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite:
In this darkly comedic novel, a young woman in Lagos must navigate the consequences of her sister’s serial killer tendencies while also trying to figure out her own life.
Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi:
The sequel to Children of Blood and Bone, this fantasy novel follows the story of Zelie and Amari as they struggle to bring magic back to their kingdom and fight against those who seek to destroy it.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi:
This bestselling fantasy novel follows the story of a young girl named Zelie who embarks on a dangerous journey to bring magic back to her kingdom and avenge her mother’s death.
Stay with Me by Ayobami Adebayo:
Set in Nigeria, this powerful and moving novel tells the story of a couple’s marriage and the secrets and betrayals that threaten to tear it apart.
Blackass by Igoni Barrett:
In this satirical novel, a young man in Lagos wakes up one morning to find that he has been transformed into a white man and must navigate the consequences of his sudden change in appearance.