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Nnedi Okorafor is an international award-winning novelist of African-based science fiction, fantasy and magical realism for both children and adults. She’s most recognized for weaving African culture into creative evocative settings and memorable characters. Some of the titles she has authored are "Who Fears Death", the "Akata" series, the "Binti" novella trilogy, "Zahrah the Windseeker", and many more. Her novel “Who Fears Death” has been optioned by HBO and is in early development as a TV series with George RR Martin from the "Game of Thrones" series as executive producer. As if all these accolades and achievements weren’t enough, Nnedi is also currently writing a Black Panther series for Marvel.
In describing Nnedi and her work, The New York Times wrote, “Nnedi Okorafor has made a name for herself with novels that combine politically complex science fiction and lyrical fantasy.“
In this episode, Nnedi walks us through her research process for the “Akata” series, and she also shares what her writing process was like for the books. We discuss the power of listening and how it helps you with your writing, how to find an ideal editor for your story, and why she encourages writers to have a messy first draft. We also touch on her thoughts about expanding one’s worldview, and how science fiction helps authors craft stories about cultures and politics. Nnedi also shares helpful advice on managing a storytelling career and motherhood.
Say 'Hi' to Nnedi on Twitter and check out the book mentioned in her episode by clicking here!
I’ve been so excited to wrap up 2017 with Nnedi’s episode, happy listening!
Xo,
Yin
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“Science fiction is one of the most effective forms of political writing and it’s because it takes from science and it also takes from the art of storytelling.”
-Nnedi Okorafor (Click to tweet!)
“Even if you only have time to write a paragraph a day, write a paragraph a day.”
-Nnedi Okorafor (Click to tweet!)
“If you are going to write from those points of view that are not natural to you, that are outside of yourself, sitting back and listening is one of the best ways to grab it.”
-Nnedi Okorafor (Click to tweet!)
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WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN TODAY'S EPISODE:
Nnedi walks us through her research process for the “Akata” series The power of listening and how it helps you with your writing How science fiction helps authors craft stories about cultures and politics A look into Nnedi’s writing process Advice on managing a storytelling career and motherhood Thoughts on expanding one’s worldview Why Nnedi encourages a messy first draft How to find an ideal editor for your story