A review by ivi_reads_books
Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor

emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Death of the Author is a sharp, layered, and unapologetically fierce novel about survival, family, and the power of telling your own story. It follows a disabled Nigerian woman living in the U.S., navigating the harsh realities of being Black, disabled, female, and a daughter of immigrants in a world that tries to limit her at every turn. 

The main character is fierce, independent, and doesn’t take nonsense from anyone—including her large, opinionated family made up of both Igbo and Yoruba heritage. Stuck in a precarious work situation and financial insecurity, she hits rock bottom—until she writes the book she’s always wanted to write and, against the odds, strikes gold. 

This book cleverly plays with form—a book within a book—and exposes the cutthroat nature of the publishing industry, reminding me of Yellowface by R.F. Kuang in its critique of gatekeeping and exploitation. 

There’s also a sci-fi twist: Would you choose to enhance yourself with technology that makes you part robot if it meant financial security or a better future? And what would your family think of that decision? 

The novel explores deep themes of cultural identity, family pressure, ableism, and independence while teaching me a lot about Nigerian culture and the immigrant experience in the U.S. The protagonist’s voice is bold and uncompromising—you may not always agree with her, but you’ll never forget her. 
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