Review of Africa Risen: A New Era of Speculative Fiction
A.E. Jackson Review Score: 2 / 5 Ravens
How was this review scored?
African ancestor worship blends seamlessly with advanced AI to deliver what Arthur C. Clarke would recognize as magic. “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
For the past two years, I’ve traveled to Malawi Africa on mission trips. I hope to return again next year. Each time I go, I fall more in love with the people, the culture, and the history. Each visit brings into stark contrast the opposing forces of tradition and progress, old beliefs and new faith. It is a fascinating place and people. Africa Risen showcases every dream of the continent through the shop front window of futurism.
The anthology delivers on the hard work of award-winning editorial team Sheree Renée Thomas, Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, and Zelda Knight. Thirty-two original stories showcase the breadth of fantasy and science fiction from Africa and the African Diaspora.
The collection follows in the footsteps of the pioneering Dark Matter anthology series. African science fiction and fantasy are celebrated with vibrancy and diversity while demonstrating the reach and cultural impact of her talented writers.
Several of the tales stood out more than others. Topics covered by all thirty-two tales are vast. A small cross-section of those stories exhibits the wide variety and exceptional writing craft of the talented contributors.
"A Dream of Electric Mothers" by Wole Talabi welcomes readers like a brochure announcing the world fully delivered by Phillip K Dick in Minority Report. Hosting conversations with ghosts - real or electronic - will quicken the pulse of any reader, and leave them questioning the advice of the ancients. While the story had a rough opener, those who stick with the tale will enjoy a most satisfying twist.
"IRL" by Steven Barnes is reminiscent of Neal Stephenson’s Snow Crash or Mike Pondsmith’s Cyberpunk worlds. The line between virtual and reality blurs as threats to the protagonist get more stark. Readers are rewarded with complex character development, and exploration of a world just out of our current grasp. (* Keep trying Zuck.)
“Mami Wataworks” by Russell Nichols warns ‘keep your tears to yourselves’ and for good reason. The harsh, unforgiving, dystopia envelopes readers - gripping their parched throats as tight as the hold it has on the main character. The way through surprises and delights, but not before breaking hearts. The story sticks with you, forcing reflection. The implications of which could change our current society.
"March Magic" by W. C. Dunlap illustrates the arrival of African goddesses to the swamps and soils of the New World. The vivid depiction provides entry for old faiths trying to make a place for themselves in the midst of modern struggles. Readers will sense, and cheer on, the coming judgment of established prejudice. And if not, make readers as themselves why.
"Rear Mirror" by Nuzo Onoh is a wonderful, spooky, and exhilarating tale. Dealing with the dead is tricky business not for the faint of heart, weak of mind, or timid in spirit. And especially not for anyone unwilling or unable to follow the rules of engagement. The wrestling match between faith and religion is evident without being heavy-handed. The experience delivers a satisfying full-bodied story for the characters and readers alike.