Nnedi Okorafor author page

Nnedi Okorafor biography

Nnedi Okorafor is an author of children’s and young adult fiction, as well as adult novels and comics. She was born in the United States to Nigerian parents. Okorafor’s writing often draws on both her Nigerian heritage and her experiences in America, blending elements of science fiction, fantasy, and African culture.

Okorafor’s debut novel for young readers, Zahrah the Windseeker, was published in 2005. The book introduces readers to a world inspired by West African folklore and follows a young girl with special abilities. She has also written The Shadow Speaker, published in 2007, which is set in a futuristic version of Niger and explores themes of empowerment and environmental change.

Among her works for younger readers is the Akata series, beginning with Akata Witch (2011), which follows a Nigerian-American girl discovering her magical abilities. The sequel, Akata Warrior, was published in 2017. Okorafor’s books are known for their imaginative settings and incorporation of African mythology and traditions.

In addition to her novels, Okorafor has written comics for Marvel, including stories featuring the character Shuri from the Black Panther universe. Her work has received recognition from several literary organisations. In 2011, Akata Witch was published by Viking Children’s Books.