African authors have made significant contributions to the world of storytelling, and the quality of their literature is unmatched. This is to be expected, as Africa is a continent rich in diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity is greatly reflected in its literature. In recent years, interactive books have gained popularity as a unique way to make the reading journey more engaging. In this article, we will list and review some of the best African interactive books that combine culture, storytelling, and interactivity.
“Choose Your African Adventure” Series
If you’re looking for a truly interactive reading experience, the “Choose Your African Adventure” series is a fantastic book to start with. Inspired by the popular “Choose Your Own Adventure” books kids love, this series has been created by an ensemble of African authors.
It transports readers into various African settings and cultures through the pages. Readers get to make decisions for the main character, shaping the story’s outcome and becoming a part of the world. With diverse storylines and cultural backgrounds, these books are an excellent way to learn about the richness of African societies.
“Nnedi Okorafor’s Afrofuturist Gems”
Nigerian-American author Nnedi Okorafor is well-known in the world of literature for her Afrofuturist science fiction and fantasy novels. Interactive books aren’t the main focus of her bibliography, but her creative narratives and storytelling style have always had the potential for interactive adaptation.
“Binti,” one of Okorafor’s acclaimed novellas, makes for an excellent interactive book. Its compelling story of a young girl from the Himba tribe who embarks on a journey to a distant university in space will have you on the edge of your seat. The interactive version could include immersive 3D renderings of the alien world she encounters. This will allow readers to explore alongside the protagonist.
“Akiki’s Discovery” by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi
“Akiki’s Discovery” is a delightful interactive children’s book written by the lovely Ugandan author Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi. This book introduces young readers to the vibrant Ugandan culture through the eyes of Akiki, who is portrayed as a curious and adventurous girl.
The interactive elements in the book include eye-catching pop-up illustrations and flaps that can be lifted. There are also hidden surprises that keep children engaged as they learn about Ugandan traditions and values. Makumbi’s storytelling and the interactive features combine to make “Akiki’s Discovery” a must-read for kids and parents alike, regardless of background.
“Afrotopia” by Felwine Sarr
“Afrotopia” by Senegalese economist and philosopher Felwine Sarr might not be your traditional interactive book. But it surely challenges readers to engage with the text in a unique way and stimulates the imagination.
In this book, Sarr explores African identity, culture, and the continent’s future. While it lacks interactive visuals, the thought-provoking elements of it invite readers to interact with the author’s ideas, theories, and reflections.
“Zahrah the Windseeker” by Nnedi Okorafor
Another amazing title from Nnedi Okorafor, “Zahrah the Windseeker,” is a young adult novel. It seamlessly blends fantasy, science fiction, and African folklore to give you a deep dive into the cores of their culture.
While not originally an interactive book, it also has the potential to be adapted into an interactive format. In this format, the readers can navigate through the fantastical world of Ginen and make choices that impact the protagonist’s journey. As a result, the readers can immerse themselves in the story and explore its magical universe in a more interactive way.
“Children of Blood and Bone” by Tomi Adeyemi
“Children of Blood and Bone” is a bestselling novel by Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi, the genre being fantasy. While it’s not an interactive book in the traditional sense, it has a gripping narrative and flawless world-building. These two factors could lend themselves well to an interactive adaptation.
In an interactive adaptation of the story, the readers could explore the magical world of Orïsha and make choices that influence the fate of the characters. This would add a new dimension to an already captivating story. Regardless of the adaptation, it can still be quite immersive, thanks to the detailed writing by the author.
In conclusion, African literature is a treasure trove of diverse stories and cultural experiences. The concept of interactive books adds a new dimension to them and opens up exciting possibilities to make these narratives even more engaging and immersive. So whether you’re a child or an adult, you can definitely find an African interactive book that can transport you to the heart of Africa, allowing you to explore its cultures.
