10 African Fantasy Novels Based on African Mythology

In a world brimming with fantasy literature, it’s no surprise that readers are continually seeking unique and captivating stories to transport them to realms beyond their wildest dreams. One such treasure trove of inspiration is African mythology, with its rich tapestry of tales, legends, and folklore that have been passed down through generations.

This article unveils the magic of 10 Fantasy Novels Based on African Mythology that not only whisks readers away on extraordinary adventures but also immerses them in the enchanting and diverse mythos of the African continent.

African mythology is a vast and vibrant universe encompassing the traditions and beliefs of countless tribes and regions. These stories are often deeply rooted in the natural world and reflect the cultural, historical, and spiritual aspects of the communities that have preserved them.

As a testament to the richness and diversity of African mythology, the novels featured in this list span a wide range of styles, from epic high fantasy to urban and post-apocalyptic adventures.

So, prepare to be spellbound by the richness, diversity, and enchantment of African Myth-inspired fantasy. These 10 remarkable novels are sure to ignite your curiosity and leave you longing for more as you discover the colorful part of African mythology within the world of fantasy literature.

1. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

In Children of Blood and Bone, Tomi Adeyemi takes readers to the mythical kingdom of Orïsha, a land inspired by West African culture and Yoruba mythology. The novel tells the story of Zélie Adebola, a young girl whose life is upended when the ruthless king eradicates magic and slaughters the maji, including Zélie’s mother.

As the kingdom descends into tyranny, Zélie embarks on a perilous quest to restore magic and avenge the fallen maji. Along the way, she forms unlikely alliances and confronts her own destiny. Adeyemi’s masterful storytelling skillfully weaves themes of oppression, love, and loyalty, all while exploring the rich tapestry of Yoruba mythology.

The first in the Legacy of Orïsha series, this novel promises a heart-pounding adventure full of magic, courage, and the struggle for justice.

2. Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James

Marlon James’ Black Leopard, Red Wolf is a dark and immersive fantasy novel steeped in African history and mythology. The story follows a skilled tracker named Tracker, known for his exceptional ability to find anyone or anything. Hired to locate a mysterious boy who disappeared three years earlier, Tracker teams up with a motley crew of mercenaries, including the shape-shifting Black Leopard.

As they journey through ancient cities, dense forests, and treacherous mountains, the group encounters mythical creatures and dark forces that test their resolve. Told with vivid prose and a nonlinear narrative, this novel is the first installment in the Dark Star Trilogy and has been hailed as an African Game of Thrones.

Readers can expect a complex, sprawling epic that explores themes of power, identity, and truth.

3. The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter

Evan Winter’s The Rage of Dragons is an action-packed and emotionally charged fantasy inspired by African mythology and the author’s South African and Xhosa heritage. Set in a world where society is divided into strict castes, the story follows Tau, a young warrior of the lowest caste who seeks vengeance for his father’s murder.

Driven by rage and a thirst for justice, Tau challenges the oppressive system and dedicates himself to mastering the art of swordsmanship, ultimately rising through the ranks to become a formidable fighter. Alongside the backdrop of a brutal war, Tau’s quest takes him through a world of dragons, demons, and powerful magic.

Winter’s debut novel is the first in the Burning series and deftly explores themes of societal injustice, personal sacrifice, and the cost of vengeance.

4. Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor

Nnedi Okorafor’s Akata Witch introduces readers to a world of magic and wonders deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and West African folklore. The story revolves around Sunny Nwazue, a Nigerian-American girl born with albinism who discovers that she possesses latent magical abilities.

As Sunny begins to navigate the hidden world of the Leopard People, she befriends three other magically gifted children, and together they form a coven known as the Oha coven. When a dangerous and powerful criminal threatens their world, the quartet must combine their unique talents to save the day.

Okorafor’s enchanting novel skillfully blends elements of magical realism, coming-of-age, and adventure, creating a vibrant and engaging tale that celebrates the richness of African mythology. Akata Witch is the first book in the Akata Witch series, followed by its sequel, Akata Warrior.

5. Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor

Set in a post-apocalyptic future version of Sudan, Nnedi Okorafor’s Who Fears Death is an evocative and powerful fantasy novel that draws inspiration from African folklore and explores themes of survival, identity, and self-discovery.

The story follows Onyesonwu, a young woman born from violence who discovers that she possesses extraordinary magical powers. As she struggles to understand her abilities and her place in a world rife with prejudice and conflict, Onyesonwu sets out on a journey to confront her past and change the fate of her people.

Through her vivid storytelling and richly drawn characters, Okorafor weaves a tale that confronts challenging topics such as race, gender, and cultural identity while also highlighting the beauty and resilience of African mythology.

6. Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

Kingdom of Souls, the captivating debut novel by Rena Barron, immerses readers in a world inspired by West African mythology and folklore. The story centers on Arrah, a young girl born into a family of powerful witch doctors who is desperate to have magic of her own.

As the kingdom faces an unimaginable threat in the form of child-snatching demons, Arrah makes the agonizing decision to trade years of her life for magical power, setting her on a dangerous path to save her people.

Barron’s enthralling novel delves deep into themes of sacrifice, power, and the complexities of family dynamics, all while showcasing the enchanting world of tribal magic and ancient legends. Kingdom of Souls is the first installment in a trilogy, followed by Reaper of Souls and the forthcoming Queen of Souls.

7. David Mogo, Godhunter by Suyi Davies Okungbowa

In David Mogo, Godhunter, author Suyi Davies Okungbowa transports readers to a post-apocalyptic Lagos, Nigeria, where the veil between the realms of gods and humans has been shattered. David Mogo, a demigod and self-proclaimed god hunter, finds himself navigating this new reality as dangerous gods wreak havoc on the city.

Hired by a powerful wizard to capture two warring deities, David embarks on a perilous journey that will test the limits of his strength and loyalty. Okungbowa’s urban fantasy novel seamlessly blends African mythology with elements of science fiction and magical realism, creating a thrilling, fast-paced adventure that delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the responsibility that comes with power.

8. The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi

Roshani Chokshi’s The Gilded Wolves is an engaging and lushly written fantasy novel inspired by West African and Egyptian mythology. Set in an alternate version of 19th-century Paris, the story follows Séverin Montagnet-Alarie, a wealthy treasure hunter and hotelier, as he assembles a diverse crew of talented misfits to solve a mysterious puzzle and uncover ancient secrets.

As the group navigates a world of hidden societies, magical artifacts, and dark conspiracies, they must also confront their own pasts and the ties that bind them. Chokshi’s richly detailed narrative effortlessly weaves elements of history, mythology, and magic, resulting in a captivating tale that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the pursuit of knowledge.

The Gilded Wolves is the first book in a trilogy, followed by The Silvered Serpents and The Bronzed Beasts.

9. The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm by Nancy Farmer

Nancy Farmer’s The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm is an inventive and imaginative novel that blends African mythology with science fiction, set in a futuristic Zimbabwe. When the three children of Zimbabwe’s chief of security are kidnapped, a trio of mutant detectives known as the Ear, the Eye, and the Arm is hired to find them.

As the children navigate the strange and dangerous world outside their sheltered existence, they encounter a wide array of mythical creatures and cultural elements drawn from African folklore.

Farmer’s unique narrative skillfully explores themes of courage, friendship, and personal growth, while also providing a vivid portrayal of a futuristic society infused with African mythology.

10. The Library of the Dead by T.L. Huchu

T.L. Huchu’s The Library of the Dead is an enthralling and atmospheric urban fantasy set in a dystopian Edinburgh, Scotland. The novel introduces readers to Ropa Moyo, a young girl who works as a ghost talker, relaying messages from the dead to the living.

Ropa’s life takes an unexpected turn when a ghost tasks her with finding a missing child, leading her to the mysterious Library of the Dead, a place where the knowledge of the deceased is preserved. As Ropa delves deeper into the supernatural world, she uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens the balance between the living and the dead.

Drawing inspiration from African mythology, Scottish folklore, and Zimbabwean magic, Huchu weaves a captivating tale that explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of knowledge. The Library of the Dead is the first book in the Edinburgh Nights series

Final thoughts

In recent years, there has been a surge in interest and appreciation for fantasy novels that draw from non-Western mythologies, and these 10 selections offer a gateway into the awe-inspiring world of African-inspired fantasy. Each novel not only pays homage to the myths and legends of Africa but also reimagines them, weaving intricate narratives that resonate with readers from all walks of life.

So, prepare to embark on a literary journey like no other as you explore the spellbinding realms of gods, warriors, and mystics in these 10 Fantasy Novels Based on African Mythology. These books promise to leave you breathless, enthralled, and eager to uncover more of the rich and diverse heritage that Africa has to offer.