The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA) has unveiled the finalists for the 61st Nebula Awards, with three writers from the African and African diaspora literary community earning nominations across major categories.
- Nnedi Okorafor is a finalist for Best Novel
- Wole Talabi for Best Novella
- Somto Ihezue for Best Novelette
Nigerian-American writer Nnedi Okorafor is nominated for her novel Death of the Author. This widely celebrated work follows Zelunjo “Zelu” Onyenezi-Onyedele, a disabled Nigerian American writer whose life shifts dramatically after she pens a bold science fiction story that propels her into literary fame. The novel has already picked up major recognitions, including an NAACP Image Award, and was named one of TIME’s Must-Read Books of 2025.
Wole Talabi earns his nomination for Descent, published in Clarkesworld. The novella follows Gwaato, the adopted child of a geodynamics expert, who sets out to explore the volatile depths of a storm-ridden planet, uncovering difficult truths about ambition, knowledge, and expectation. The work has also been shortlisted for the BSFA Award, capping off a strong run for the writer ahead of his forthcoming novel The Fist of Memory, expected later in 2026.
Somto Ihezue rounds out the trio with his novelette We Begin Where Infinity Ends, also published in Clarkesworld. The story leans into a solarpunk aesthetic, following a group of young characters bound by love, technology, and a shared mission to protect fragile ecosystems. His work has appeared in several leading speculative fiction magazines and has previously been recognized by the British Fantasy Award, the Nommo Award, and the Utopia Award.
Winners will be announced on June 6, 2026, at the Nebula Awards Conference in Chicago. Voting remains open to SFWA members until April 15.
Congratulations, Nnedi Okorafor, Wole Talabi, Somto Ihezue!
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