Books Like...

In 'Moxyland' by Lauren Beukes, readers are introduced to a near future South Africa where a society heavily reliant on technology is controlled by a merging of the security state and corporate entities. The story follows four young individuals navigating this dystopian world where access to everything is linked to their phones, and disobedience can lead to severe legal consequences. As the characters deal with constant surveillance, extreme body modifications, and corporate sponsorship, they are forced to confront the harsh realities of their environment while attempting to pursue their own goals and ideals.

The narrative in 'Moxyland' is structured around the intertwining perspectives of the main characters, each with their own motivations and struggles against the oppressive system they live in. Lauren Beukes presents a chillingly realistic portrayal of a future where technology divides society into distinct classes, raising thought-provoking questions about power, privacy, and the impact of corporate control on individual lives. Through elements of cyberpunk storytelling and dystopian world-building, the novel explores themes of activism, rebellion, and the consequences of living in a tech-centric society.

In Lauren Beukes' 'Broken Monsters', the story unfolds in a broken Detroit, intertwining the lives of a diverse set of characters including a detective, her daughter, a failed journalist, a church worker, and a disturbed artist. As a young boy's mutilated body is discovered, the narrative delves into a complex web of events involving a supernatural element, online journalism, teenage friendships, and the dark desires of a killer artist. Beukes expertly weaves together multiple storylines, exploring themes of urban decay, media saturation, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.

The writing style in 'Broken Monsters' is described as engaging, fast-paced, and gripping, with vividly real characters and a compelling plot that keeps readers hooked. Beukes' narrative approach immerses the reader in the haunting setting of Detroit, painting a vivid picture of a city in turmoil while exploring dark themes such as mental illness, misogyny, and the destructive power of social media. The book blends elements of crime thriller, horror, and social commentary, offering a multifaceted portrayal of a city grappling with darkness and decay.

In the second half of the twenty first century, a city has evolved around an alien entity in Nigeria with the ability to heal or reanimate the dead. Psychic powers emerge, and a secret government agency employs individuals with these abilities. The protagonist, Kaaro, a sensitive with the gift of finding things, delves into politics and the alien world to survive. The narrative weaves a complex tale of noir and speculative science fiction, exploring themes of humanity and alien integration.

Tade Thompson's "Rosewater" is a blend of deep sci-fi elements, intricate world-building, and a narrative that jumps back and forth in time. The story unfolds in a near-future Nigeria, where a biodome known as Rosewater attracts healings, mutations, and reanimations during its annual opening. Kaaro, a complex protagonist with flaws, navigates a world of political intrigue, psychic abilities, and alien mysteries, offering a fresh take on alien invasion and psychic powers in a Nigerian setting.

"Lagoon" by Nnedi Okorafor is a unique first contact novel that takes place in Lagos, Nigeria, where aliens land in the ocean just outside the city. The story follows a marine biologist, a soldier, and a rapper who become involved in the alien encounter and the chaos that ensues in Lagos. The writing style incorporates multiple points of view, including non-human characters like a spider, a road, and a swordfish, adding depth to the narrative and creating a vibrant and troubled portrayal of the city.

'The Shining Girls' by Lauren Beukes is a unique and gripping novel that combines elements of time travel, horror, and sci-fi. The story follows Kirby, a survivor of a time-traveling serial killer named Harper, who is determined to seek revenge and solve her own cold case with the help of a seasoned reporter, Dan Velasquez. The narrative jumps between different characters and various time periods, creating a fast-paced and suspenseful read that keeps the reader engaged. Beukes expertly weaves together a complex plot with well-developed characters, particularly Kirby, who shines as a strong and resilient protagonist.

The book delves into themes of survival, revenge, and the consequences of time travel, offering a fresh and intriguing take on the crime thriller genre. Beukes' writing style is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and descriptive, with short chapters that make it a compelling and easy read. The blend of time-travel elements, intricate plotting, and strong character development sets 'The Shining Girls' apart as a standout and thought-provoking novel that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

The Book of Phoenix is a prequel to 'Who Fears Death,' set in a post-apocalyptic world where genetic manipulation and magic mysticism intertwine. The story follows Phoenix, a genetically engineered SpeciMen with extraordinary abilities, as she navigates a dystopian future shaped by global warming, colonization, and human cruelty. The narrative seamlessly blends science fiction and magical realism, offering a unique perspective on themes of race, slavery, and technological exploitation.

'Who Fears Death' by Nnedi Okorafor follows the story of Onyesonwu, a young woman born as a result of rape in a world divided by tribal violence and prejudice. Onye, as she is called, possesses powerful magical abilities and embarks on a quest to challenge the injustices of her world and rewrite the future. The narrative is a blend of dystopian fantasy and traditional folk tale, tackling themes of violence, love, acceptance, and empowerment, all rooted in African traditions and mythology.

The writing style of 'Who Fears Death' is described as powerful and compelling, drawing readers in with vivid imagery and strong character development. The novel explores dark and uncomfortable themes such as sexual violence, genocide, and discrimination, while also offering elements of magic, mysticism, and hope. The story is praised for its unique blend of genres and its ability to address complex issues with depth and sensitivity.

'The Old Drift' by Namwali Serpell is an epic novel that spans generations, depicting the history of Zambia through the intertwined stories of multiple families. The narrative combines elements of magical realism with historical events, from the discovery of Victoria Falls by explorer David Livingstone to a near future dominated by biotechnology. The book follows the lives of characters through colonial times, independence, and into the 2020s, exploring themes of love, loss, exploitation, and the changing nation of Zambia. The writing style is described as magnificent, with intricate storytelling that weaves together romance, fairy tale, science fiction, and history into a complex and engaging narrative.

David Mogo, Godhunter reinvents Lagos as a post-apocalyptic world where the Orishas have fallen, and David Mogo, a demigod and Godhunter, is tasked with preventing them from destroying Earth. The story is a blend of fantasy, mystery, action, and coming of age, featuring quirky characters and punchy, visceral action scenes. The book explores a different culture with complex characters, various gods, and a fast-moving plot, all written from a non-American viewpoint.

The writing style of the book is described as rich in imagery, symbolism, and beautiful turns of phrase. It incorporates elements of African speech rhythms, code-switching between languages like pidgin, English, Yoruba, and Nsibidi, adding richness and authenticity to the post-apocalyptic Lagos setting. The book combines sci-fi, fantasy, and Nigerian religion and mythology to create a unique narrative that turns multiple genres on their heads.

"No Longer at Ease" by Chinua Achebe follows the story of Obi Okonkwo, a young, Western-educated Nigerian who returns to Nigeria after studying in England. Upon his return, Obi finds himself torn between his traditional Igbo roots and the modern, evolving society of Nigeria. As he navigates a prestigious job in the Civil Service in Lagos, Obi struggles to reconcile his Western education and Christian upbringing with his native traditions, leading him down a path of moral struggle and corruption. Through Obi's story, Achebe explores the clash between African and Western cultures, the impact of colonialism, and the complexities of post-colonial Nigeria.

Achebe's writing style in "No Longer at Ease" is direct, sympathetic, and tinged with bleak irony. He delves into themes of colonial and post-colonial relationships, tribal loyalties, traditions, and the influence of Western culture on Nigerian society. Through flawed characters like Obi, Achebe illustrates the challenges faced by educated Africans in a changing world, highlighting the struggle between idealism and the harsh realities of life in a newly independent nation.