Ben Okri
Ben Okri is a Nigerian poet and novelist often considered one of the foremost African authors in the post-modern and post-colonial traditions. He is best known for his Booker Prize-winning novel 'The Famished Road' (1991). Okri's work weaves together reality and folklore, exploring complex social and existential themes. His writing style is noted for its poetic cadence and vivid imagery.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Famished Road
The novel centers around the life of an abiku, a spirit child, who resides in the bustling city of Lagos. Despite numerous attempts to return to the spiritual world, the boy is tethered to the physical realm through the love of his mother. As he navigates through the political unrest and poverty of post-colonial Nigeria, he experiences a series of surreal and mystical encounters, all while wrestling with the pull of the spirit world. The narrative is a blend of reality and the supernatural, providing a unique perspective on the struggles and complexities of human life.
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2. Astonishing the Gods
"Astonishing the Gods" is a mystical exploration of the intersection of the visible and invisible worlds. The protagonist is an invisible man who embarks on a spiritual journey, seeking knowledge and truth. Along his journey, he encounters various gods and mythical beings, each imparting wisdom and insights. The narrative is a blend of poetry, philosophy, and storytelling that challenges the reader's perception of reality, encouraging them to question the nature of existence and the power of imagination.
