Writers and the Contemporary Books They Believe Will Become Future Classics

In our past First Draft interviews, we asked leading African writers about the contemporary books they believe will become classics in the future. Here’s what they told us.

Writing a book that remains relevant through generations and centuries is no easy feat. Whether for their subject matters or innovation in craft, the great classics of world literature are so because they resonate with readers across cultures and generations. In this way, these books truly pass the test of time, which is the aspiration of every writer. Of course, no contemporary reader can know for sure what contemporary books will attain the classic status in the future; in the end, only future generations can make that call. But how exciting and illuminating it is to play the guessing game! 

That’s why in our First Draft column at The Republic, we make it a point to ask leading African writers about the books they believe will become classics in the future. After all, who is better equipped to make educated guesses than writers themselves, who are among the most dedicated and insightful readers? We have discovered not only the books that have profoundly influenced African writers, but also the high regard they have for the works of their contemporaries. From the Nigerian writer who believes all novels by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie are certain contenders to the Kenyan writers who have had visceral reactions to Mohamad Mbougar Sarr’s The Most Secret Memory of Men, these writers demonstrate a passion for contemporary African literature. 

Here are six writers and the books they think will become classics in the future. 

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