As 2025 approaches, African literature promises to dazzle with a fresh array of captivating stories destined to leave a lasting impact. Reflecting on the literary highlights of 2024, it is evident that African writers have continued to engage readers with rich narratives exploring love, identity, history, and resilience.
Notably, The Shadow King by Maaza Mengiste earned widespread acclaim for its vivid portrayal of Ethiopian women warriors during the Italian invasion. Similarly, Oyinkan Braithwaite’s My Sister, the Serial Killer kept readers enthralled with its dark humor and gripping narrative.
Chimeka Garricks’ A Broken People’s Playlist also stood out, offering a poignant collection of short stories inspired by music. Garricks masterfully wove heartfelt narratives with themes of love, loss, and resilience, striking a powerful chord with readers. Social media platforms amplified the book’s success, with TikTok users praising its emotional range and Instagram reviewers calling it “a soundtrack for the soul.”
Meanwhile, Akwaeke Emezi’s You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty captivated TikTok audiences, who celebrated its exploration of love, grief, and second chances. Readers described the novel as “achingly beautiful and emotionally raw,” with its poignant lines inspiring countless video reels. Bolu Babalola’s Love in Color also continued to enchant audiences with its reimagined love stories from mythology and history, earning Instagram accolades as “a celebration of love in all its forms.”
Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi’s The First Woman drew widespread admiration for its exploration of Ugandan folklore and feminist themes, earning a prominent spot in book clubs worldwide. Readers praised its “unforgettable protagonist” and “immersive storytelling.” Additionally, Mohamed Mbougar Sarr’s The Most Secret Memory of Men resonated deeply with its intricate storytelling and profound philosophical insights.
Looking ahead to 2025, the African literary landscape is poised for another year of vibrant and diverse storytelling. From seasoned literary giants to exciting new voices, the year promises to captivate readers across the globe with a wealth of unforgettable works.
Spotlight on Established Authors
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – Dream Count
Renowned as one of Africa’s most influential contemporary writers, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is set to unveil her much-anticipated novel, Dream Count, on March 4, 2025. According to Penguin Random House, this literary work, a decade in the making, delves deeply into the complexities of love, happiness, and the intricate choices that shape our relationships. Furthermore, fans of Adichie’s acclaimed novels Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah can look forward to her trademark eloquence and profound storytelling. Undoubtedly, Dream Count is poised to be one of the most talked-about releases of the year.

Ngūgī wa Thiong’o – Decolonizing Languages and Other Revolutionary Ideas
Kenyan literary legend Ngūgī wa Thiong’o will release Decolonizing Languages and Other Revolutionary Ideas on May 6, 2025. This powerful essay collection builds on his lifelong mission to explore the intersections of language, culture, and colonialism. Renowned for championing linguistic decolonization, Ngūgī reaffirms the transformative power of African languages to challenge both the psychological and material legacies of colonialism. Moreover, the book offers profound insights into how language shapes identity, history, and national culture, solidifying its relevance in contemporary discourse.
Emerging Voices to Watch
Olufunke Grace Bankole – The Edge of Water
Debut novelist Olufunke Grace Bankole is poised to make a powerful literary debut with The Edge of Water, set for release in February 2025. This novel tells the poignant story of a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, leaving everything familiar behind in search of something greater. With themes of heartbreak, longing, and the transformative power of love, Bankole’s storytelling is bound to leave readers captivated by its emotional depth.

Eloghosa Osunde – Necessary Fiction
Eloghosa Osunde, the acclaimed author of Vagabonds, introduces Necessary Fiction, an audacious exploration of cross-generational queer life in Nigeria. Set for release on July 22, 2025, the novel takes readers to Lagos, where it vividly captures the lives of over two dozen characters navigating love, identity, and societal expectations. Through their journeys, Osunde poses provocative questions about family, freedom, and self-definition. Moreover, the book offers a striking and insightful portrayal of contemporary Nigerian society, solidifying Osunde’s reputation as a bold and thought-provoking storyteller.

Tochi Onyebuchi – Harmattan Season
Nigerian-American author Tochi Onyebuchi, celebrated for his speculative fiction, will release Harmattan Season in March 2025. This hardboiled fantasy noir combines Raymond Chandler’s classic style with the vibrant cultural tapestry of postcolonial West Africa. Moreover, Onyebuchi’s skillful blend of political commentary and imaginative storytelling ensures Harmattan Season will be one of the year’s most thought-provoking and captivating reads.
2025 promises to be an exciting year for African literature, with a diverse and compelling range of voices set to shape the literary world. These upcoming literary works are poised to engage readers with fresh perspectives on love, identity, history, and resilience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of African literature or just beginning to explore the rich tapestry of voices from the continent, the year ahead offers plenty of exciting new reads to look forward to.
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