The shortlist for the prestigious Toyin Falola Prize has been announced, featuring five talented writers from Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania. The prize, organized by Lunaris, celebrates writers who embody the spirit of African literature, a spirit championed by the renowned historian and professor, Toyin Falola.
This year's theme, "Sacred," has inspired a diverse range of submissions, with the shortlisted works exploring themes of identity, family, faith, and the complex interplay between human desires and the divine.
Here are the shortlisted writers and their works:
Divine Inyang Titus for "Fibers from the Deep": This novel delves into the spiritual journey of its protagonist, grappling with family dynamics and personal growth amidst turmoil. The story explores themes of identity, belief, and connection, culminating in a poignant portrayal of love and loss within the family.
Mlilo Mpondo for "A Place like Here": This story offers a powerful portrayal of marginalized characters navigating the contrasting landscapes of Yeoville and Johannesburg's northern suburbs. Through vivid storytelling, "A Place like Here" explores themes of identity, survival, and resilience, offering a compelling look at urban life and societal inequities.
Mohammad Haruna for "The Harvestor's Commandment": This work intricately weaves themes of privilege, moral dilemma, and spiritual redemption through the protagonist's journey from luxury to exile and ultimately, pilgrimage. The narrative explores the consequences of transgressing sacred duties in pursuit of power and understanding.
Immaculate Halla for "The Blood We Tie": This captivating story explores familial loyalty and moral dilemmas amidst profound personal struggles. Through the main character's harrowing choices and the unwavering support of her sisters, the narrative delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting repercussions of buried secrets.
Nwafor Emmanuel for "The Recrudescence": This thrilling novel depicts a village thrown into chaos by the arrival of a mysterious stranger. The story explores the clash between human desires and divine intervention, weaving moral quandaries and unforeseen twists that captivate readers until its haunting resolution.
The judges, Chinua Enzenwa-Ohaeto and Gil Ndi-Shang, will now have the difficult task of selecting a single winner from these five exceptional writers. Congratulations to all the shortlisted authors for their remarkable achievements!
This year's theme, "Sacred," has inspired a diverse range of submissions, with the shortlisted works exploring themes of identity, family, faith, and the complex interplay between human desires and the divine.
Here are the shortlisted writers and their works:
Divine Inyang Titus for "Fibers from the Deep": This novel delves into the spiritual journey of its protagonist, grappling with family dynamics and personal growth amidst turmoil. The story explores themes of identity, belief, and connection, culminating in a poignant portrayal of love and loss within the family.
Mlilo Mpondo for "A Place like Here": This story offers a powerful portrayal of marginalized characters navigating the contrasting landscapes of Yeoville and Johannesburg's northern suburbs. Through vivid storytelling, "A Place like Here" explores themes of identity, survival, and resilience, offering a compelling look at urban life and societal inequities.
Mohammad Haruna for "The Harvestor's Commandment": This work intricately weaves themes of privilege, moral dilemma, and spiritual redemption through the protagonist's journey from luxury to exile and ultimately, pilgrimage. The narrative explores the consequences of transgressing sacred duties in pursuit of power and understanding.
Immaculate Halla for "The Blood We Tie": This captivating story explores familial loyalty and moral dilemmas amidst profound personal struggles. Through the main character's harrowing choices and the unwavering support of her sisters, the narrative delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting repercussions of buried secrets.
Nwafor Emmanuel for "The Recrudescence": This thrilling novel depicts a village thrown into chaos by the arrival of a mysterious stranger. The story explores the clash between human desires and divine intervention, weaving moral quandaries and unforeseen twists that captivate readers until its haunting resolution.
The judges, Chinua Enzenwa-Ohaeto and Gil Ndi-Shang, will now have the difficult task of selecting a single winner from these five exceptional writers. Congratulations to all the shortlisted authors for their remarkable achievements!
