Five Nigerian Female Authors You Should Be Reading

While Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie stands out as a prominent figure in the literary world, there are other remarkable Nigerian female writers who deserve equal recognition. These authors are constantly crafting captivating stories that resonate deeply with readers and leave an indelible mark on the world of literature. Here are five of them you should have on your radar:

Tomi Adeyemi: Transporting readers to a captivating realm, Tomi Adeyemi, a Nigerian-American wordsmith, grabbed our attention with her enthralling novel, “Children of Blood and Bone,” released in 2018. The first instalment of a gripping trilogy, this book left readers craving more. Beyond her writing prowess, Adeyemi shares her expertise as a creative writing coach and was acknowledged on the esteemed Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2019.

Ayobami Adebayo: In 2017, Ayobami Adebayo leapt onto the literary scene with her debut masterpiece, “Stay with Me.” This compelling work not only earned her the prestigious 9mobile Prize for Literature but also found its way into the hearts of readers worldwide, being translated into numerous languages. Adebayo’s recent creation, “A Spell of Good Things,” is yet another testament to her literary prowess, even earning her a coveted nomination for the 2023 Booker Prize.

Chika Unigwe: Renowned for her thought-provoking works such as “Fata Morgana,” “Better Late than Never,” and “On Black Sisters Street,” Chika Unigwe is an exceptional author. Her remarkable talent was honoured when her book “On Black Sisters Street” secured the illustrious NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature in 2012, a recognition of her contribution to the literary landscape. Her latest offering, “The Middle Daughter,” continues to capture hearts with its compelling narrative, receiving rave reviews and an impressive 4/5 rating on Goodreads.

Nnedi Okorafor: Nnedi Okorafor’s literary contributions have solidified her reputation as one of Nigeria’s finest female authors. With notable works like the Binti series, “Who Fears Death,” and “Akata Warrior,” Okorafor has skillfully woven tales that traverse genres and ignite the imagination. Her accolades, including the Eisner Award, Nebula Award, and Hugo Award, further emphasise her remarkable storytelling prowess.

Oyinkan Braithwaite: Among her noteworthy literary accomplishments, Oyinkan Braithwaite’s 2018 novel, “My Sister, the Serial Killer,” shines brilliantly. This gripping tale has garnered widespread acclaim, earning her the esteemed 2019 LA Times Award for Best Crime Thriller. Not confined to novels, Braithwaite also showcases her creativity through short stories and illustrations, showcasing her multifaceted talent.