Written by Jess Tyrrell & Nadine Kilala

Africa has inspired countless writers with its tear-jerkingly romantic scenery, violent history, brave liberators and beguiling mix of traditions and customs. Riddled with unbridled adventure, wisdom, protagonists, backdrops and strife, the mother continent is, however, far too often portrayed through western eyes. Sustainability and social and climate justice necessitate striving for more representation and inclusivity, with literature the perfect opportunity to learn about diverse forward-thinking stories that reiterate our common humanity. 

Be it a biography, mind-boggling historical, or immersive work of fiction, we encourage you to diversify your literary and African know-how horizons by reading books about Africa by Africans, especially if you plan to travel to her enigmatic shores. 

Here is our top 10 selection of books about Africa written by Africans, exploring its history, war, nature, inequality, love, the human condition, liberation, climate change, and much more. 

A Bigger Picture - My Fight to Bring a New African Voice to the Climate Crisis, by Vanessa Nakate (2021)

Flowers on the Moon, by Billy Chapata (2017)

Mighty Be Our Powers: How Sisterhood, Prayer, and Sex Changed a Nation at War - A Memoir, by Leymah Gbowee (2011)

The World We Once Lived In, by Wangari Maathai (2021)

Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe (1958)

Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales, by Nelson Mandela (2002)

Nervous Conditions, by Tsitsi Dangarembga (1988)

Coconut, by Kopano Matlwa (2007)

Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood, by Trevor Noah (2016) 

Half of a Yellow Sun, by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (2006)

Bonus – Glory: Magical Visions of Black Beauty, by Kahran and Regis Bethencourt (2020) 

We hope that the enthusiasm and animation of past, present and future literary experimentation and creativity from the African continent inspires you to expand your literary horizons and worldview. Don’t forget to send us your favourites. And remember: engage with local narratives before your trip to Africa, to fully authenticate your experience.

Ready to see more of Africa? Click here to check out our trips.