Yaa Gyasi

Yaa Gyasi is an acclaimed novelist whose debut novel, Homegoing, has been met with near-universal praise. Her work often explores the African diaspora and the struggles that accompany being an immigrant. With a masterful command of language, Gyasi tells stories that challenge readers to think deeply about difficult subjects. As she continues to craft amazing works of literature, she is shaping the landscape of Black female literature like few others before her.

Born in Mampong (Ghana) in 1989 to a teacher mother and doctor father, Gyasi wrote her first story at the age of eleven and eventually attended Stanford University, where she studied English and creative writing. After graduation, she turned her attention to her craft and published her first book, Homegoing, in 2016.

Homegoing follows two parallel storylines as we trace the descendants of two half-sisters in Ghana. Through one half-sister's descendents, we learn of the struggles of slaves brought to America’s South. The other half-sister's descendents remain in West Africa, where they struggle against terrible injustices such as the abomination of female circumcision. Each chapter dives into the descendants of a new generation and changes perspectives, locations, and timelines as Gyasi draws her audience into the powerful narrative.

Homegoing has often been praised for its ability to keep readers enthralled while bringing to light uncomfortable truths. Gyasi writes with a poetic and naturalistic style, allowing readers to sympathize with the characters and putting them in their shoes.

In 2017, her book was listed as one of the best books of the year by countless publications, including The New York Times and several other prestigious literary outlets. She also won the National Book Critics Circle’s John Leonard Prize for the best debut novel that year and the United Kingdom’s 2017 PEN Open Book Award.

While Gyasi has made a name for herself with Homegoing, she has also released a short story collection in 2020 called, Transcendent Kingdom. This collection revolves around a young American, Gifty, and her struggles as a PhD research scientist who, in spite of her considerable education, is not taken seriously as a woman of color. Through her story, Gyasi offers a powerful view into the experience of African immigrants in America.

Gyasi’s writing is original, potent, and innovative, allowing her to quickly become one of the most influential voices in the world of literature. Her works have a universal appeal, addressing topics that can be difficult but can also move readers. Whether telling a story of slavery or a journey of a single woman, Gyasi’s command of language is exemplary and her writing and stories will continue to inspire and enthrall readers for years to come.