African Sci-Fi & Fantasy: Where to Start?

Did you know Africa has some of the BEST sci-fi and fantasy books?

For years, science fiction and fantasy have been dominated by Western narratives, but African writers have been creating some of the most groundbreaking speculative fiction in recent years. Whether it’s Afrofuturism, Africanfuturism, or myth-infused fantasy, these stories blend tradition, innovation, and imagination in ways that make them truly unforgettable.

If you're new to African SFF, here’s your perfect starting point.

Lagoon by Nnedi Okorafor takes the classic alien invasion story and flips it on its head, bringing extraterrestrials not to New York or London, but to Lagos, Nigeria. A marine biologist, a soldier, and a rapper must navigate the chaos of first contact, with the city itself becoming a character in this thrilling blend of sci-fi and African folklore.

Rosewater by Tade Thompson transports readers to a near-future Nigeria where an alien biodome has mysterious healing properties. Kaaro, a telepath working for the government, begins to uncover secrets that could change everything. This cyberpunk-inspired novel is packed with espionage, mystery, and mind-bending twists, making it an award-winning must-read.

In The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna, sixteen-year-old Deka discovers that her blood is gold, marking her as an outcast in a deeply patriarchal society. Instead of being cast out, she is recruited into an elite army of warrior girls who fight for the empire. With West African mythology woven into its world-building, this novel delivers action, magic, and powerful themes of resilience and identity.

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi reimagines Yoruba mythology in an epic fantasy adventure. Zélie, a young girl determined to restore magic to her people after a ruthless king wipes it out, embarks on a dangerous journey. With rich storytelling, powerful themes of oppression and resistance, and unforgettable characters, this novel became a global sensation.

The Civilization by M K McKenzie tells of a lost homeworld, a girl seeking the truth and her  journey through dark forces, ancient deities, and looming annihilation. It is a YA fantasy novel with an original blend of African-inspired mysticism and adventure.

Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor follows a young Ghanaian girl, Fatima, who stumbles upon an alien artifact and gains mysterious abilities. Renamed Sankofa, she becomes both feared and revered as she wanders through a futuristic yet deeply traditional world. This novella is a beautifully written meditation on power, identity, and isolation.

African speculative fiction is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Authors like N.K. Jemisin, Lauren Beukes, and Mohale Mashigo are reshaping the genre, bringing African perspectives, folklore, and futuristic visions to global audiences. With more publishers and digital platforms supporting African SFF, there’s never been a better time to explore these stories.

Which African SFF book is on your  list? Drop your recommendations in the comments!

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