Iskanchi Press| Publisher of African Books in English and in Translation

Embark on a captivating adventure into the heart of Northern Nigeria with "African Folktales for the Young at Heart: Hausa Tales of Wit, Wisdom, and Wonder," a delightful collection of traditional stories perfect as fiction books for kids 9 - 12. Written in accessible English by Abubakar Yusuf Ibrahim and richly illustrated, these enchanting tales offer a unique window into the vibrant world of Hausa folklore, presenting a fresh take on the fairy tales book genre. Discover a world where animals possess the gift of speech, cunning tricksters use their wit to outsmart their adversaries, and valuable life lessons are seamlessly woven into the fabric of each narrative. These African fiction stories, ideal as books for kids, range from clever animal fables to tales exploring themes of courage, honesty, and community, offering a rich alternative to classic fairy tales book collections. African Folktales for the Young at Heart" is a must-have for anyone seeking engaging fiction and enriching books for kids. It's a fantastic way to introduce young readers to the beauty and wisdom of African storytelling, offering a unique and valuable addition to the landscape of fiction books best sellers in children's literature. Girls especially will enjoy the strong characters and engaging narratives found within this fairy tales book for girls and boys alike. Immerse yourself in the wonder and wisdom of these timeless African folktales.

African Folktales for the Young at Heart

After a devastating personal loss, young Sonlio embarks on a transformative journey through the heart of Senegal in The Child from Dindefello Falls. This coming-of-age tale is as lyrical as it is urgent—blending myth, philosophy, and documentary into a powerful fable of healing and environmental consciousness. As Sonlio walks the path of grief and discovery, he encounters both the scars of climate change and the seeds of renewal—introduced to African-led innovations like natural tree regeneration and the Great Green Wall project aimed at reversing desertification in the Sahel. Through his young but awakening eyes, readers gain insight into real-world strategies for environmental restoration, all rooted in local wisdom and love for the land. With its poetic voice and philosophical undercurrents, The Child from Dindefello Falls is more than a novel—it’s a vision for the future, a tribute to Senegalese culture, and a call to reimagine how we heal, both individually and collectively.

The Child from Dindefello Falls

Maatla the Magnet is a charming picture book about learning to belong, embracing who you are, and discovering the magic of true friendship. Maatla—whose name means “strength” in Setswana—is a little magnet with a big heart. But when the other magnets keep pushing him away, he begins to feel left out and unsure of where he belongs. He tries attracting different things—pins, coins, and other shiny bits—but nothing feels quite right. Just when Maatla is ready to give up, he meets Thata, a gentle magnet whose name means “love.” Through their joyful friendship, Maatla learns that being yourself is the most powerful way to attract the right people into your life. With vibrant illustrations and a gentle, empowering message, Maatla the Magnet is the perfect book for children learning about kindness, confidence, and connection. Ideal for classroom storytime, family reading, and social-emotional learning at home.

Maatla The Magnet

Lesedi’s Little Light is a tender and uplifting picture book that gently introduces young readers to the themes of grief, resilience, and healing. Set in Botswana, this beautifully illustrated story follows Lesedi—a joyful little girl whose name means “light” in Setswana—as she grows up in the warm embrace of her mother and grandmother. When tragedy strikes and Lesedi loses her mother, her world dims. But with the loving support of her grandmother and the power of memory and community, Lesedi begins to rediscover the meaning of her name. As she bravely sings the refrain, “This little light of mine,” Lesedi learns that even in the darkest times, love and light endure. Perfect for children coping with loss and for caregivers looking for a gentle way to discuss bereavement, Lesedi’s Little Light is a story of hope, cultural pride, and the enduring strength of family.

Lesedi's Little Light

The New Eve is a haunting and philosophical speculative novel that delves into the core of what it means to love, to resist, and to be human in a technologically dominated future. Set in a totalitarian society where human reproduction is mechanized, emotional bonds are forbidden, and gender identity is strictly controlled, this visionary story imagines a world devoid of connection—and the rebellion that stirs within. Adam and Maneki, two outliers in this hyper-controlled world, form a bond that defies the laws of their society. As they struggle against a system that criminalizes affection and individuality, they encounter androgynes who exist outside the binary, challenging the regime’s rigid definitions of identity and desire. Through their journey, the story examines the suppression of love, the ethics of technological advancement, and the resistance that grows from within the human spirit. Translated into English by Paul Roochnik, a retired professor from the Defense Language Institute in California, The New Eve captures the profound literary and philosophical vision of acclaimed Mauritanian author Moussa Ould Ebnou. Originally written in both Arabic and French, this edition brings an essential work of African speculative fiction to English-speaking readers for the first time—bridging cultures, genders, and futures

The New Eve

When mysterious black clouds darken the city sky, one brave African girl discovers how to fight the monster of pollution. Join Chisom on a colorful journey of discovery as she encounters a mysterious dark cloud in the sky. What starts as a scary morning with soot filling the air becomes an inspiring lesson about environmental awareness and how even the smallest actions can help our planet breathe. When Chisom wakes up to find the sky darkened by strange black clouds, she's frightened by what she calls "a monster" in the sky. Through conversations with her mother, her teacher Mr. Ogaga, and even the local newspaper vendor, Chisom learns about soot pollution—where it comes from, how it affects our world, and most importantly, what we can do about it. With vibrant illustrations that capture both the beauty of Chisom's world and the concerning change in her environment, "The Soot" introduces young readers to environmental concepts through a relatable story. When Mr. Ogaga demonstrates how pollution wraps around our planet like too many blankets, Chisom's concern transforms into a determination to make a difference. This engaging picture book ends with a hopeful message as Chisom plants her very own tree—lovingly named "Blankover"—to help remove the "artificial blankets" of pollution from our earth. Perfect for Earth Day, science units on pollution and climate, or for any young reader curious about how they can help protect our planet.

The Soot

The Emperor’s Son by acclaimed Liberian author Vamba Sherif is a sweeping historical epic set in 19th-century West Africa. It follows Zaiwulo, a gifted youth raised and mentored by the wise sage Talata of the revered Haidarah family in the ancient city of Musadu. As Zaiwulo comes of age, he is drawn into the shadowy court of Emperor Samori Touré—the legendary military leader known as the “Black Napoleon.” Caught between loyalty to his mentor, the complexities of imperial politics, and a burning desire to uncover his true origins, Zaiwulo transforms from scholar to soldier in a world brimming with secrets and shifting powers. His journey takes him across empires, through battles, and into the heart of leadership, identity, and self-discovery. Blending adventure, war, mysticism, and political drama, The Emperor’s Son is both a coming-of-age tale and a bold reimagining of African history. With richly drawn characters and cinematic storytelling, Sherif delivers a novel that will resonate with fans of historical African fiction, epic sagas, and literary tales of resistance and transformation.

The Emperor's Son

Seventeen-year-old Kadsa is weary of a nomadic existence, traveling with her enigmatic grandfather in a relentless search for their lost, mystical homeworld. Dreams of college, friendships, and a stable life feel increasingly distant. When online research unearths unsettling lies about her identity, Kadsa makes a bold decision: to break free and forge her own path towards the truth. Just as she begins to embrace her newfound autonomy, disaster strikes. Her grandfather, her only anchor, is suddenly kidnapped, thrusting Kadsa into a perilous rescue mission. Her journey leads her to a hidden realm teeming with dark forces, ancient deities stirring from their slumber, and the looming threat of utter annihilation. In this breathtaking young adult fiction adventure, Kadsa must confront earth-shattering questions: What is her grandfather's true role in this mystical world's fate? And more importantly, does she possess the courage within her young spirit to become its unlikely savior? "The Civilization" is a transformative odyssey, exploring the depths of resilience, the unwavering pursuit of truth, and the indomitable strength of the young adult spirit. This is a captivating read for anyone seeking thrilling young adult literature and a powerful story of self-discovery.

The Civilization

The Man with Yellow Hair is a poignant and lyrical exploration of love, memory, and enduring friendship. Written for grandmothers, mothers, and all who cherish the wisdom of life’s later chapters, this novel traces the lifelong bond between two women as they journey through the joyful innocence of youth, the rich chaos of motherhood, and the inevitable sorrows and resilience that come with age. At the heart of their story lies a mysterious figure from the past—a man with yellow hair—whose reappearance challenges everything they thought they knew about love and loyalty. As the present collides with long-buried secrets, the women must confront the ultimate test of their connection and the question of what remains when so much has changed. With heartfelt depth and graceful prose, The Man with Yellow Hair offers a rare and beautiful portrayal of mature women’s lives—celebrating the emotional landscapes of friendship, romance, loss, and rediscovery. This novel invites readers into a world where memories matter, laughter lingers, and every chapter of life holds the power to transform.

The Man With Yellow Hair

Waiting for Maria is a powerful and unsettling portrait of life inside a Nigerian women’s prison, where inmates struggle not only with confinement but with a broken justice system that forgets them. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s National Day, the story follows a group of female inmates as they compete for the country’s single amnesty slot—one chance at freedom in a system that offers little mercy. When the executioner arrives, the stakes grow higher and time becomes a haunting shadow over every decision. Through heartbreak, betrayal, and quiet acts of kindness, the women reveal stories of unjust detention, abuse, resilience, and fragile hope. At the center of it all is Maria—whose mysterious fate holds the key to their shared redemption. A finalist for the Commonwealth Writers' Prize, Waiting for Maria is both a literary and human rights triumph. It is a searing commentary on gender, injustice, and the power of solidarity in even the darkest places. This gripping novel shines a light on the silenced voices of incarcerated women and invites readers to question the systems that fail them.

Waiting for Maria

What if crossing the finish line was only the beginning? In The Finish Line, Ayo Oyeku delivers a captivating blend of adventure, fantasy, and character-building that places this children’s book firmly among juvenile fiction books best sellers. Meet Mafoya, a spirited girl with one big dream—to become the fastest sprinter in her town. But when she crosses the finish line during a major competition, she finds herself whisked into Musanga Kingdom, a magical world full of talking animals, mysterious challenges, and life-altering quests. As Mafoya navigates this enchanted land, she discovers that true victory is not just about speed—but about integrity, perseverance, and the courage to stand for what’s right. Will she return to her world the same girl she was, or will the Musanga Kingdom change her forever? Perfect for fans of juvenile fiction books ages 8-14 and children fantasy books, The Finish Line is a delightful tale ideal for classroom discussions, bedtime storytelling, or independent reading. It’s a compelling addition to any juvenile fiction book series collection, and a must-have for parents, teachers, and young readers seeking meaningful adventures.

The Finish Line

Set in the fractured heart of contemporary East Africa, Truth Is a Flightless Bird is a searing literary thriller that explores the underworlds of Nairobi and Mogadishu, where power, love, and survival collide. When Nice, a sharp-witted UN aid worker in Mogadishu, becomes entangled with her drug-trafficking boyfriend, her life takes a sharp, violent turn. Abducted by the corrupt and brutal Officer Hinga and his haunted sidekick Ciru, Nice is swept into a kidnapping scheme fueled by desperation and greed. Back in Nairobi, her former lover Duncan—a white American pastor struggling with his own disillusionment—leaves the comfort of his expat life and dives headfirst into Kenya’s criminal underworld in a risky rescue attempt. Set against the backdrop of President Obama’s visit to Kenya, Akbar Hussain’s novel is more than a gripping story—it’s a visceral critique of colonialism, capitalism, and imperialism, wrapped in a brutal love letter to modern Nairobi. The novel deftly weaves complex characters, dark humor, and explosive commentary on urban inequality, human resilience, and the absurdities of hope in a broken system. Bold, brutal, and uncompromising, Truth Is a Flightless Bird announces Akbar Hussain as a powerful voice in global fiction.

Truth Is a Flightless Bird

Believers and Hustlers is a bold, satirical collection of short stories that capture the contradictions, ironies, and comedy of everyday life in contemporary Nigeria. With razor-sharp wit and absurdist flair, Sylva Nze Ifedigbo dissects a society where survival often depends on faith, fraud, or both—where prophets promise miracles and hustlers promise wealth. Set in a world where truth bends under the weight of illusion, these stories spotlight characters who navigate religion, politics, corruption, social media, and identity with equal parts desperation and swagger. From a pastor who moonlights as a scammer to a young influencer caught in a whirlwind of half-truths, each tale is as hilarious as it is haunting. Perfect for readers of African satire, postcolonial fiction, and absurdist storytelling, Believers and Hustlers offers an unflinching yet humorous look at the hustle-and-belief culture gripping modern Africa. Ifedigbo’s voice is fresh, fearless, and unforgettable.

Believers and Hustlers

Barzakh: The Land In-Between is a genre-defying novel that blends science fiction, philosophy, mysticism, and Mauritanian history into a bold meditation on human identity, time, and destiny. When archaeologists studying the mythical Saharan land of Barzakh unearth the bones of Gara, an ancient soul awakens through the remnants of his myelin—the biological thread that preserves his consciousness across centuries. Gara becomes a foreigner in his own story, moving from 11th-century Mauritania to a nightmarish, dystopian future. As he traverses time, culture, and memory, Gara unwittingly sows the seeds of his own destruction in a world struggling to reconcile past and future. With haunting beauty and intellectual depth, Moussa Ould Ebnou weaves together Islamic cosmology, postcolonial critique, and speculative vision to explore the liminal space between life and death—known as Barzakh. This first-ever English edition, masterfully translated by Marybeth Timmermann, introduces English-speaking readers to a groundbreaking work of Afrofuturist and philosophical fiction that challenges how we think about time, self, and civilization.

Barzakh: The Land In-Between

Best of Isele Anthology is a vibrant and boundary-defying collection of short stories, poems, and essays selected from the acclaimed literary platform Isele Magazine. In these pages, voices from across the globe gather to explore love and loss, beginnings and endings, identity, memory, and transformation. With themes ranging from grief and belonging to cultural inheritance and reinvention, this anthology celebrates the diversity of human experience through multiple genres and experimental forms. Each piece defies convention while offering clarity, emotion, and insight—capturing the pulse of contemporary storytelling. Edited by Ukamaka Olisakwe and Tracy Haught, this collection features compelling new and established voices, holding a prism to the world and reflecting our shared humanity in dazzling, often unexpected ways. Whether you're drawn to lyrical poetry, bold fiction, or reflective nonfiction, Best of Isele Anthology is a literary journey that opens the mind and expands the heart.

Best of Isele Anthology

In Angola Is Where I Plant My Field, acclaimed Angolan writer João Melo delivers eighteen razor-sharp, darkly funny short stories that blend absurdist humor, postmodernism, and postcolonial critique. From the chaotic streets of Luanda to unlikely settings like North Korea and Haifa, Melo’s bold narratives challenge conventional storytelling with an intrusive narrator, metafictional commentary, and biting wit. The result is a deeply reflective yet entertaining exploration of Angolan identity, global politics, and the human condition. Through characters caught in surreal and unpredictable scenarios, readers are prompted to laugh—then think—about power, displacement, cultural absurdities, and historical memory. Perfect for fans of absurdist fiction, African satire, and experimental literature, Angola Is Where I Plant My Field brings a fresh and necessary voice to contemporary world fiction. Melo’s stories are both uniquely Angolan and universally resonant, making this a standout work in the canon of postcolonial African literature.

Angola Is Wherever I Plant My Field