Book Review: Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor

Written by Safa Alhassan

Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor was the book club's book pick sometime in 2025. It was my first fantasy book by an African author. The story is about a young woman called Zelu, living with a disability and a deeply depressing life, who later writes a a science fiction novel, and the story gradually blurs the lines between her reality and the world she creates.

I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy it because the story line seemed very ambitious as I've never read anything like it, but I knew I wanted to step outside my comfort zone as always. Once I started reading, I found myself really enjoying the author's writing style. It felt like she was simply having a conversation with the reader while effortlessly telling a story. The pacing was great too, and I have to commend her for that. Also I really loved other themes in the book and I think that was my favorite part of it. Themes like family dynamics and the drama of uncles, aunties, parents etc, or like race, fame, identity and what it means to Zelu, the protagonist to become an author.

However, as the story progressed, the plot just wasn't coming together for me. The novel alternates between Zelu's real life and the fictional world she creates which was a little confusing. That was when I started wondering if fantasy simply isn't my genre. Or maybe it is, and I just haven't found the kind of fantasy I truly enjoy because I remember I enjoyed Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco. 

Anyway, I didn't get to finish Death of the Author, and I was especially tired because my copy was a soft copy of the book. Though I almost bought the hard copy when I went to the bookstore because the book cover is absolutely stunning.

That brings me to a question: do you judge a book by its cover?

I think this is one of those books you'll either completely love or struggle to connect with. For me, it was the latter, but I can definitely see why fantasy lovers would appreciate it. If you enjoy imaginative stories, world buildings and fantasy, then this is one you should definitely give a try.

Also, Akwaeke Emezi, one of the best contemporary writers of our time, has also written fantasy. There is Somadina and then there's Son of the Morning. You should check it out, along with other books. I highly recommend them.