Literary Odyssey: Top 20 books by Nigerian authors in 2024

• As 2024 concludes, Nigerian authors have delivered diverse and impactful stories that captivate both local and global audiences
• From fantasy epics and historical fiction to social commentary and speculative narratives, this year’s releases offer something for every reader
• The titles include And So I Roar, Masquerade, Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorrow, and others

As 2024 draws to a close, it is an opportune time to reflect on the outstanding literary contributions of Nigerian authors this year. 

These books, spanning various genres, offer compelling stories that resonate globally while staying rooted in Nigerian experiences.

Below is a curated list of the top 20 Nigerian books of 2024 to celebrate this year in literature.

Top 20 books by Nigerian authors in 2024 

1. And So I Roar by Abi Daré

This sequel to The Girl with the Louding Voice continues Adunni’s story as she navigates adulthood, education, and the complexities of Nigerian womanhood. Abi Daré weaves a tale of empowerment and resilience with her signature heartfelt prose.

2. Born in a House of Glass by Chinenye Emezie: 

Emezie explores themes of domestic abuse and family loyalty in this poignant novel. It follows the journey of a young girl striving to heal and find her voice in the shadow of a turbulent upbringing.

3. Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorrow by Damilare Kuku:

Kuku’s satirical novel unpacks Lagos’ obsession with beauty standards, social media culture, and familial pressure. Told with humour and sharp insight, it’s a bold commentary on modern Nigerian society.

4. Water Baby by Chioma Okereke: 

Set in Lagos’ Makoko slum, this coming-of-age novel follows Baby, a teenager navigating the challenges of her environment while dreaming of a brighter future. The book combines hope and social commentary in equal measure.

5. Ghostroots by Pemi Aguda: 

Aguda’s debut collection is a blend of the supernatural and the real, set in a hauntingly reimagined Lagos. It explores ancestral ties, freedom, and identity through stories steeped in African spiritual traditions.

6. Where Sleeping Girls Lie by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé: 

This young adult mystery unravels dark secrets at a Nigerian boarding school after a student’s sudden disappearance. Àbíké-Íyímídé crafts an intriguing tale of trust, betrayal, and courage.

7. We Were Once Girls by Aiwanose Odafen: 

Odafen’s narrative focuses on the bonds between childhood friends and how life’s challenges shape their journeys. It’s a story of friendship, loss, and reclaiming identity.

8. After the End by Olukorede S. Yishau: 

Two women, bound by a shared tragedy, navigate grief, betrayal, and redemption. Yishau’s tale is a deeply emotional exploration of motherhood, secrets, and healing.

9. The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obioma:

Set during the Nigerian Civil War, this epic novel examines guilt, atonement, and survival. Obioma’s masterful storytelling breathes life into history with an intensely personal narrative.

10. Children of Anguish and Anarchy by Tomi Adeyemi: 

The thrilling finale of the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy, this fantasy epic sees Zélie and Amari battling their most formidable adversaries. Adeyemi delivers an unforgettable conclusion to the saga.

11. Allow Me to Introduce Myself by Onyi Nwabineli: 

This novel dives into toxic family dynamics and the quest for self-identity. Through Anuri’s journey, Nwabineli sheds light on the complexities of familial expectations and personal freedom.

12. Blessings by Chukwuebuka Ibeh: 

In his debut novel, Ibeh intertwines themes of love, loneliness, and political strife, offering a nuanced look at life in contemporary Nigeria.

13. The Road to the Salt Sea by Samuel Kolawole: 

Kolawole’s evocative novel follows a family's journey displaced by societal upheavals, exploring themes of resilience and hope against all odds.

14. Masquerade by Nnedi Sangoyomi: 

This speculative fiction debut merges Nigerian folklore with futuristic elements, creating a gripping narrative about identity and ancestral connections.

15. In the Shadow of the Fall by Tobi Ogundiran: 

A fantasy novella steeped in Yoruba mythology, Ogundiran tells the story of an untested acolyte tasked with saving the Orisha during a celestial conflict.

16. Parasol Against the Axe by Helen Oyeyemi: 

Oyeyemi’s novel explores competitive friendships and storytelling, set against Prague's enchanting yet mysterious backdrop.

17. Loss Is an Aftertaste of Memories by Michael Chiedoziem Chukwudera: 

This reflective coming-of-age tale examines love, family, and loss. Chukwudera crafts a deeply personal narrative that resonates with universal themes.

18. Convergence Problems by Wole Talabi: 

This speculative fiction anthology explores African-inspired futuristic narratives, blending science, culture, and philosophy.

19. A Kind of Madness by Uche Okonkwo: 

Okonkwo’s psychological thriller delves into the mind of a protagonist grappling with identity, trauma, and family secrets.

20. Like Water, Like Sea by Olumide Popoola: 

Popoola’s lyrical novel explores migration, belonging, and cultural identity through the intertwined lives of its characters.

The diversity of themes and genres in Nigerian literature this year is a testament to its growing influence on the global stage. 

These 20 books are not just stories; they are windows into a culture, a people, and a world filled with complexity and beauty. Add these titles to your reading list, and join us in celebrating the brilliance of Nigerian literature.

What were your favourite books by Nigerian authors this year? Share your recommendations in the comments!

Feminism: 10 Nigerian books that centre around women

Meanwhile, in an earlier report, TheRadar compiled a list of some Nigerian novels that focus on women. These books explore themes of gender inequality, motherhood, identity, sexual violence, and marriage issues, reflecting the evolving roles of women in Nigerian and diaspora settings. 

They include Stay with Me, The Girl with the Louding Voice, Everything Good Will Come, Ordinary People, and others.