Book Review: The Year’s Best African Speculative Fiction (2021)
When I first heard about The Year’s Best African Speculative Fiction (2021), edited by the talented Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, I felt an irresistible pull toward a realm previously unexplored in my reading journey. As a long-time fan of speculative fiction, the very notion of an anthology dedicated to African voices in this genre was not just exciting—it was a revelation. Having dabbled in various global literatures, I was eager to dive into those stories that are often overlooked, and this anthology promised not only to entertain but to enlighten.
The collection features twenty-nine stories from twenty-five writers that encapsulate the vast tapestry of African cultures, dreams, and realities. From the very first page, I found myself transported to imaginative landscapes, each story imbued with unique characters and rich narratives that reflect both the human experience and the nuances of identity. The anthology does an exceptional job of marrying the speculative with the everyday, exploring themes of tradition, resilience, and the haunting echoes of history, often wrapped in layers of magic and myth.
One story that particularly caught my attention was "The Ghosts of Children," which masterfully braids narratives of loss with supernatural elements. The haunting imagery stuck with me long after I closed the pages, a poignant reminder that our past continues to shape our identities. The characters in each tale felt authentic, beautifully flawed and complex, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives while navigating the realms of fantasy.
Ekpeki’s editing shines through in how he has curated this anthology. The balance of established authors with emerging voices creates a rich dialogue across the stories, each offering a fresh perspective on what speculative fiction can achieve. The narratives are not just escapism but serve as powerful critiques and explorations of societal issues—climate change, colonial history, and gender dynamics are interwoven in ways that will make any reader pause and ponder.
The writing itself is a beautiful tapestry, with rhythmic prose, striking imagery, and evocative themes that linger like a fine aftertaste. The pacing varies, with some stories quickening the pulse while others draw you into a meditative reflection. One quote that resonated with me came from Locus Magazine, which described this anthology as a "must-read." I couldn’t agree more; it is a tapestry woven with threads of wonder that showcase the extraordinary talent within the African speculative fiction community.
If you’re a fan of speculative fiction or simply curious about the myriad voices that exist within it, I highly recommend The Year’s Best African Speculative Fiction (2021). Readers who appreciate the intersection of cultural narratives with imaginative storytelling will find themselves enriched and perhaps even transformed by this anthology.
Personally, this book has rejuvenated my love for discovering new perspectives in literature. It illuminated facets of human experience that I had yet to consider, reminding me that the world of storytelling is not just a mirror, but a vast, uncharted map waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned genre enthusiast or new to speculative fiction, this anthology is bound to leave you wonderstruck and hungry for more.
In closing, if you’re ready to step into a world where the boundaries of reality are continuously redefined, pick up this anthology. You won’t just read the stories; you’ll live them.
You can find The Year’s Best African Speculative Fiction (2021) here >>