We’re excited to present our 100 Notable African Books of 2023. Now in its 5th year, this list continues to spotlight the most impactful African literature annually. Our goal remains consistent: showcasing the rich literary talent of African authors and introducing readers to new works, especially from less-represented regions of the continent. (Go HERE for the list.)

The African literary landscape is thriving, marked by an influx of vibrant new voices and captivating books. This year’s selection upholds our commitment to reflecting the African literary scene’s diversity through diverse nationalities, genres, themes, and trends.

The list this year includes works from African 26 countries, featuring Western Sahara, Mauritius, and the Benin Republic for the first time. The authors range from celebrated figures like Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Teju Cole, South Africa’s Nthikeng Mohlele, Sudan’s Leila Aboulela, Ghana’s Kwei Quartey, and others to new talents such as Somalia’s Momtaza Mehri, Nigeria’s Ani Kayode Somtochukwu, Botswana’s Gothataone Moeng, and Zimbabwe’s Yvette Lisa Ndlovu, among others.

Genres on the list are diverse, spanning speculative fiction, YA, poetry, queer literature, memoirs, psychological thrillers, middle-grade books, crime novels, graphic novels, romance, the absurd, historical fiction, children’s literature, and more. Notably, 40 percent of the authors are debuting, indicating a significant influx of fresh perspectives. African independent publishers are also well-represented, with Masobe, Jacana, Cassava, Blackbird Books, Farafina, Hoopoe Press, Down River Road, Carnelian Heart, Kwela, Modjaji, and Bookcraft press, among others, featured.

Congratulations to all the authors and publishers included. We encourage everyone to celebrate their achievements and spread the word by sharing the list on social media and supporting the authors featured by buying their book.

Spread the excitement on social media using #NotableAfricanBooks2023, and don’t forget to tag us!”

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Let us know what you think by leaving a comment here or sending us an email at [email protected].

How many of these books have you read or do you have on your #tbr list? What books do you thing is missing from the list? Let us know in the comments section.