Popular African Essay Books
Find essay books written by authors from Africa for the next part of the Read Around The World Challenge. (15)
1.
An Image of Africa by Chinua Achebe EN
NigeriaDescription:
Beautifully written yet highly controversial, An Image of Africa asserts Achebe's belief in Joseph Conrad as a 'bloody racist' and his conviction that Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness only serves to perpetuate damaging stereotypes of black people. Also included is The Trouble with Nigeria, Achebe's searing outpouring of his frustrations with his country. GREAT IDEAS. Throughout history, some books have changed the world. They have transformed the way we see ourselves - and each other. They have inspired debate, dissent, war and revolution. They have enlightened, outraged, provoked and comforte... continue
2.
Create Dangerously by Albert Camus EN
AlgeriaDescription:
In these speeches Camus argues passionately that the artist has a responsibility to challenge, provoke and speak up for those who cannot
3.
Decolonising the Mind : The Politics of Language in African Literature by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o EN
KenyaDescription:
Ngugi wrote his first novels and plays in English but was determined, even before his detention without trial in 1978, to move to writing in Gikuyu.
4.
Homo Irrealis : The Would-Be Man Who Might Have Been: Essays by André Aciman EN
EgyptDescription:
"A new collection of essays on literary and cinematic themes"--
5.
How to Write About Africa : Collected Works by Binyavanga Wainaina EN
Description:
From one of Africa’s most influential and eloquent essayists, a posthumous collection that highlights his biting satire and subversive wisdom on topics from travel to cultural identity to sexuality “A fierce literary talent . . . [Wainaina] shines a light on his continent without cliché.”—The Guardian “Africa is the only continent you can love—take advantage of this. . . . Africa is to be pitied, worshipped, or dominated. Whichever angle you take, be sure to leave the strong impression that without your intervention and your important book, Africa is doomed.” Binyavanga Wainaina was a pioneer... continue
6.
Life As a Hyphen : Essays, Short Stories, Think Pieces and Personal Reflections from a Man Stuck Between Two Worlds by Ismail Badjie EN
GambiaDescription:
THE POWER OF KNOWING WHO YOU AREIsmail Badjie's collection of essays and short stories offers a deeply personal exploration of his life experience as a man straddling two worlds (Africa and USA). Ismail navigates the complexities of his dual identity with wit, candor, and a relentless pursuit of self-discovery. He encourages readers to step outside their comfort zones, challenge deeply ingrained beliefs, and explore the uncharted territories of their own inner worlds. Drawing on his life experiences, Ismail shares valuable lessons that offer a deep insight into his personal journey into father... continue
7.
Nimrod : Selected Writings by Nimrod ; ed. Frieda Ekotto EN
ChadDescription:
The Chadian writer Nimrod—philosopher, poet, novelist, and essayist—is one of the most dynamic and vital voices in contemporary African literature and thought. Yet little of Nimrod’s writing has been translated into English until now. Introductory material by Frieda Ekotto provides context for Nimrod’s work and demonstrates the urgency of making it available beyond Francophone Africa to a broader global audience. At the heart of this volume are Nimrod’s essays on Léopold Sédar Senghor, a key figure in the literary and aesthetic Négritude movement of the 1930s and president of Senegal from 1945... continue
8.
Reflections on the Guillotine by Albert Camus EN
Description:
Written when execution by guillotine was still legal in France, Albert Camus' devastating attack on the 'obscene exhibition' of capital punishment remains one of the most powerful, persuasive arguments ever made against the death penalty.
9.
Sex and Lies by Leila Slimani EN
MoroccoDescription:
Gives voice to young Moroccan women who are grappling with a conservative Arab culture that at once condemns and commodifies sex
Zimbabwe