As 2023 draws to a close, The Rustin Times embarked on an exploration of the rich and varied collection of African literature, with a keen focus on narratives centering on queer themes. Within this literary realm, we’ve gathered a diverse collection of stories that illuminate the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals across the African continent. From novels portraying the complexities of identity to memoirs echoing tales of resilience, these literary works offer profound insights into the diverse lives within the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s a comprehensive reading list showcasing some remarkable queer-themed books authored by African writers.
They Called Me Queer: This anthology compiled by Kim Windvogel and Kelly-Eve Koopman showcases a spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual individuals. While South Africa is known for its tolerance towards the queer community, the anthology delves into the realities—struggles, joys, and triumphs—of the community within a deeply unequal society.
Reclaiming the L-Word: Sappho’s Daughters Out in Africa: This anthology edited by Alleyn Diesel compiles narratives from queer African women across the continent, sharing their personal stories, challenges, and aspirations.
The Sex Lives of African Women: This groundbreaking collection of essays by Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah delves into the intimate and complex realities of African women’s experiences with sexuality, challenging stereotypes and shedding light on diverse and empowering narratives.
She Called Me Woman: Nigeria’s Queer Women Speak: This anthology edited by Azeenarh Mohammed, Chitra Nagarajan, and Rafeeat Aliyu gathers narratives, and essays from queer Nigerian women, amplifying their experiences, struggles, and resilience in a society that always stifles their voices.
Love Offers No Safety: This anthology edited by Olumide F. Makanjuola and Jude Dibia, amplifies the voices and experiences of queer men in Nigeria, providing insight into their lives in a society where homosexuality is criminalised.
And Then He Sang a Lullaby: This novel by Ani Kayode Somtochukwu, is a captivating story set in Nigeria, it narrates the love, passion, and resilience of two gay men, August and Segun, determined to love despite societal obstacles.
God’s Children are Little Broken Things: Through nine exhilarating stories, Arinze Ifekandu explores queer love in contemporary Nigeria, depicting a tender approach to these narratives amidst daily stigmas and homophobia.
When We Speak of Nothing: in this poignant coming-of-age novel Olumide Popoola traces the lives of two young friends, Karl and Abu, navigating their identities as black queer youth in London and Nigeria, exploring themes of friendship, masculinity, and belonging.
Under the Udala Trees: Chinelo Okparanta’s powerful novel follows Ijeoma, a young girl in Nigeria, who falls in love with another girl during the civil war, beautifully navigating themes of identity, love, and societal expectations.
Walking with Shadows: This novel by Jude Dibia delves into the life of Adrian, a married man in Nigeria concealing his homosexuality, and the challenges he faces when his secret is exposed.
Queer Africa: New and Collected Fiction: This collection edited by Makhosazana Xaba and Karen Martin Showcases diverse fiction from LGBTQ+ writers across Africa, the anthology presents a myriad of perspectives and experiences.
These stories, narrated by Africans, serve as a window into the diverse and intricate experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals across the continent. Spanning from tales of love to narratives depicting resilience and self-discovery, these literary masterpieces play a pivotal role in advancing a more inclusive and diverse representation within African literature. We invite you to explore these pages and possibly discover reflections of yourself within these narratives.
