One well - known author of African short fiction is Bessie Head. She was born in South Africa but later moved to Botswana. Her short stories are known for their exploration of themes like exile, identity, and the human condition in the African context. Tsitsi Dangarembga from Zimbabwe is also recognized. Her works often deal with the experiences of Zimbabwean women, as well as broader issues of colonialism and post - colonialism in Zimbabwe.
Langston Hughes is a very well - known author. His short stories often capture the essence of the African American experience in Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. Zora Neale Hurston is another great one. Her stories are filled with rich descriptions of African American culture in the South. Toni Cade Bambara also wrote some remarkable short stories that deal with various aspects of African American life, especially the role of women within the community.
Aminatta Forna is also an important figure in New African Fiction. Her books explore themes such as war, memory, and human connection. Tsitsi Dangarembga is another notable author. Her works are known for their deep insights into Zimbabwean society and the experiences of women in Africa.
There is also Sefi Atta. Her stories are set in Nigeria and often involve elements of mystery and detective work. Her writing gives insights into Nigerian society through the lens of mystery and intrigue.
Chinua Achebe is a very well - known author in modern African fiction. His novel 'Things Fall Apart' is a classic. It gives a detailed look into the Igbo society in Nigeria before and during the colonial period. Another one is Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Her works, like 'Half of a Yellow Sun' and 'Americanah', are widely read. They explore themes such as race, gender, and Nigerian identity in a modern context.
One well - known author is Deon Meyer. Although he is a South African writer, his works contribute to the broader African crime fiction genre. Another is Mehul Gohil. His books often delve into the complex social and criminal landscapes of Africa.
Nnedi Okorafor is quite well - known. She has written many great works that blend African cultures and science fiction elements. Another one is Tade Thompson. His works often explore complex themes in African science - fictional settings.
There's Helon Habila. His short stories are noted for their vivid descriptions of life in Nigeria. Yvonne Vera is another important author. Her works are deeply rooted in Zimbabwean culture and history, and she uses short stories to tell stories of love, loss, and the human condition in an African setting. And of course, there are many emerging authors who are also making their mark in contemporary African short stories.
Nadine Gordimer, although a South African writer of European descent, has written works that are deeply intertwined with the African context. Her short stories often deal with issues of race, class, and the complex social fabric in South Africa during the apartheid era and beyond.
Ngugi wa Thiong'o is quite well - known. His works often touch on themes of post - colonialism and the African identity. Another is Muthoni Garland. She writes stories that explore the lives of women in East Africa, their challenges and triumphs.
There are quite a few. Wole Soyinka is a famous name. His works in both poetry and short stories are rich in African mythology and cultural references. Ama Ata Aidoo is also well - known. She has written many short stories that focus on the experiences of African women. And then there's Bessie Head, whose stories often deal with themes of exile and belonging in an African context.