Exploring Africa Through Books: Read Around the World Challenge
- Mikayla Young
- Sep 13, 2024
- 6 min read
Africa, the enchanting continent of diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, has been a wellspring of inspiration for countless authors. As part of the Read Around the World Challenge, we delve into the captivating realm of literature set in Africa or authored by African writers. Get ready to embark on a literary journey that will transport you to the heart of this vibrant continent and introduce you to a myriad of voices and stories.
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Children's
Setting: Kenya
Genres: Nonfiction Biography
Picture Book
Ages: 4+
The narrative revolves around Wangari Muta Maathai, popularly known as "Mama Mitit," who became the first African woman to receive a Nobel Peace Prize. She was the founder of the Green Belt Movement in the 1970s, an organization that facilitated the planting of over 30 million trees in Kenya.
Setting: Zimbabwe
Genres: Folklore. Retelling, Fantasy, Fiction
Novel
Ages: 4+
An African folktale recounts a variation of the traditional Cinderella narrative, featuring Mufaro and her two daughters, Nyasha, characterized by kindness and consideration, and Manyara, known for her selfish and bad-tempered nature. When the Great King seeks a wife, he invites the most alluring and beautiful daughters in the kingdom to present themselves, aspiring to become his queen. While expectations are high, only one daughter can ultimately claim the title of queen.
Setting: South Africa
Genres: Historical Fiction, Sports Fiction
Picture Book
Ages: 5+
During his childhood in Johannesburg, South Africa, Hector, a soccer enthusiast, aspired to play on a proper field with children from different places, but apartheid restrictions prevented him from doing so. As apartheid began to fall apart in 1990, Hector's dreams seemed closer to reality, especially when the Bafana Bafana national soccer team emerged victorious in the African Cup of Nations.
Setting: Africa
Genres: Folklore, Fiction, Fantasy
Short Story Collection
Ages: 4+
A compilation of African folktales, fables, and fairytales showcasing stories that involve animals and teach valuable lessons on perils, triumph against the odds, and human nature.
Middle Grade
by African Writer
Genres: Fiction, Fantasy
Novel
Ages: 10+
A tale of Ebele, who dreams of creating a special and unforgettable Christmas for his mother, who is a widow, by adding gifts, magic, and love. Ebele warmly welcomes a mysterious man into his home and heart, and in return, learns that Christmas is about more than just gifts - it is about kindness, virtue, and compassion.
Setting: Kenya
Genres: Fiction, Contemporary, Crime/Mystery
Novel
Ages: 10+
Lumush and his friends in Railway Estate stumble upon an abandoned house rumored to be haunted, only to discover a more sinister truth lurking within – the notorious Mwachuma. By day, Mwachuma appears as a scrapyard worker, but by night, he and his accomplices engage in illicit activities, stealing coffee from the railway yard. As the boys become embroiled in this dangerous world, they face escalating risks that threaten not only themselves but also their families.
Setting: Kenya
Genres: Contemporary Fiction
Graphic Novel
Ages: 10+
Omar and his brother, Hassan, reside in Dadaab, a challenging refugee camp in Kenya. Despite facing hardships such as food scarcity and lack of medical care for Hassan, Omar sees education as a potential pathway to a better future. However, this opportunity comes with the difficult prospect of being separated from his only remaining family member, Hassan.
Setting: Africa
Genres: Fiction
Novel
Ages: 10+
In the "Dumb" Orphans: The Bandu Bunch Trilogy by Allan Low, readers are immersed in a captivating tale of friendship and adventure. The story follows a group of orphans, known as the Bandu Bunch, who embark on a series of daring escapades to uncover hidden treasures and solve mysteries. Through their journey, the orphans learn valuable lessons about loyalty, courage, and the true meaning of family. Low's narrative is rich in vivid descriptions and heartwarming moments that resonate with readers of all ages. The trilogy is a testament to the power of resilience and the bonds that can be formed in the unlikeliest of circumstances.
Young Adult
Series: Legacy of Orisha Book 1
By Nigerian-American Author
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
In a land where magic once thrived, Zélie seeks to restore what was lost when a cruel king extinguished its light. With her own magical abilities, she joins forces with an unlikely ally to challenge the oppressive regime. As they navigate a treacherous world filled with both mystical creatures and political intrigue, Zélie grapples with the true extent of her powers and confronts unexpected emotions. The fate of Orïsha hangs in the balance, with Zélie's choices holding the key to a future where magic may once again reign.
Setting: Cape Town, South Africa
Genres: Fantasy Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
In a world where magic is no longer safe, Gia's brother Nico's uniqueness becomes a dangerous trait. Cape Town, once a sanctuary for magical beings, is now a place where the Purists aim to eradicate all magic. The Belle Gente, labeled as magical terrorists, fill the newspapers with dread. When the Special Branch comes looking for Nico, Gia discovers family secrets and realizes her own role in putting her brother in jeopardy.
by Ghanaian-British author
Genres: Magical Realism, Fantasy, Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
Sante, a survivor of a tragic shipwreck, finds herself drawn into a mysterious quest for justice amidst the backdrop of Mama Rose's circus. Haunted by the voices of the deceased, she is compelled to seek out specific items that hold the key to unraveling her past. A bamboo flute, a golden bangle, and a ripening mango all play a crucial role in uncovering the secrets of her origins. As Sante navigates this enigmatic journey, the pieces of her story slowly come together, revealing a tale of loss, resilience, and the enduring power of memory.
by African author
Genres: Retelling, Fantasy, Romance, Fiction
Ages: 16+
Sarah, a girl longing for magic, discovers her family's hidden curse when her father starts transforming into a beast. After her mother leaves, Sarah unravels the family's mysterious past and realizes she is also cursed. The only way to break the curse is to avoid falling in love, or she too will become a beast. Living with unknown grandparents in a castle, Sarah must navigate the layers of enchantment to find a way to break the spell forever.
Adult
Setting: Africa
Genres: Historical Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Ages: 18+
In The Bad-Ass Librarians of Timbuktu, Joshua Hammer recounts the daring mission of Abdel Kader Haidara and his team to save ancient Arabic texts from Al Qaeda militants in Mali. Haidara, once a humble archivist, transformed into a bold smuggler to protect over 350,000 manuscripts. Facing the threat of destruction by extremists, he orchestrated a risky plan to move the priceless texts to safety. Hammer's narrative sheds light on the resilience of art and literature in the face of extremism, showcasing a remarkable victory for cultural heritage.
Setting: Nigeria
Genres: Mystery, Horror, Fiction, Thriller
Novel
Ages: 18+
Korede faces a moral dilemma when her sister, Ayoola, repeatedly seeks her help in disposing of boyfriends in self-defense. Despite knowing the right thing to do, Korede is torn between loyalty to her sister and her own feelings for a man Ayoola starts dating. As the tension escalates, Korede is forced to make a difficult choice between saving her sister or the man she loves.
Setting: Nigeria
Genres: Literary Fiction, Contemporary
Novel
Ages: 18+
Adunni, a determined fourteen-year-old Nigerian girl, craves education despite being sold as a third wife to an old man. After facing tragedy, she becomes a domestic servant in Lagos, where she uncovers the mystery of her predecessor's disappearance. Throughout her struggles as a daughter, wife, and servant, Adunni refuses to stay silent and vows to find her voice for herself and others like her.
Setting: Kenya
Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Mystery Suspense
Novel
Ages: 18+
In Nairobi, Kenya, Hope and Dean's paths cross amidst the impending loss of Harry, her father. Their intertwined journey unfolds amid challenging and perilous circumstances, as they grapple with decisions of love, hope, and trust to safeguard Harry's enduring legacy.
Bingo Card
Dive into the captivating world of African literature and experience the kaleidoscope of voices, stories, and perspectives that define this rich and dynamic continent. As you embark on this literary voyage, allow yourself to be transported to distant lands, where the echoes of the past intertwine with the vibrancy of the present, creating a tapestry of stories that celebrate the resilience, beauty, and diversity of Africa.
Join us in the Read Around the World Challenge as we celebrate the magic of African literature and embark on a global literary odyssey that spans continents and cultures. Let the words of African authors be your guide as you explore the myriad shades of human experience and the boundless creativity of the human spirit.
Unveil the literary treasures of Africa and let these enchanting stories whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure across the vast expanse of the African continent.
Let reading be your passport to Africa.
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