Goodreads has opened voting for the 2026 Goodreads Choice Awards, and three writers with African roots are among this year’s nominees. The list includes Zambian writer Namwali Serpell, British-Nigerian actor and author Cynthia Erivo, and British author of Ghanaian and Sudanese descent Saara El-Arifi.

The Goodreads Choice Awards are an annual reader-voted literary prize celebrating the books that have captured readers’ attention over the past year. The awards span 15 categories, from fiction and historical fiction to fantasy, memoir, and nonfiction. We have gathered the African writers on this year’s list below, along with links to cast your vote.

Take a moment to explore their nominated books and show these writers some love. You will need a Goodreads account to vote, so make sure you are logged in before heading to the ballot.

Readers’ Favorite Historical Fiction

Cleopatra by Saara El-Arifi

Cleopatra tells the story of Egypt’s most famous queen in her own voice. Reimagining the life of the ancient ruler beyond the familiar accounts of seduction and political intrigue, El-Arifi presents a woman determined to reclaim her history, power, and legacy.

Vote here.

Readers’ Favorite Memoir

Simply More by Cynthia Erivo

Part memoir and part inspirational guide, Simply More brings together personal reflections and life lessons from the award-winning Nigerian-British performer. Through stories about her journey as an actor and her experiences on stage and screen, Erivo encourages readers to embrace their individuality, pursue their ambitions, and become more fully themselves.

Vote here.

Readers’ Favorite History & Biography

On Morrison by Namwali Serpell

In this illuminating work of literary criticism, Zambian writer and scholar Namwali Serpell examines the work of Nobel Prize-winning novelist Toni Morrison. Drawing on her experience as both a novelist and literary critic, Serpell offers an engaging exploration of Morrison’s writing, ideas, and contribution to literature.

Vote here.

The opening round of voting runs from November 10 to November 22. The final round will take place from November 24 to November 29, with winners announced on December 3. Readers can vote in each category with a Goodreads account.

Let’s champion these books and the writers bringing African stories, perspectives, and literary contributions to readers around the world!