Nigerian-American science fiction writer Nnedi Okorafor has been announced as the winner of the Outstanding Literary Work for Fiction award at the 57th NAACP Image Awards for Death of the Author (William Morrow).
The win was announced on 23 February 2026 during the first night of the ceremony’s virtual pre-show. The NAACP Image Awards, often called the “Black Oscars,” recognize artists and entertainers of color whose work resonates within the Black community. The awards are voted on by NAACP members only.
Death of the Author centers around the character of Zelunjo “Zelu,” a Nigerian-American author who writes a science fiction novel called Rusted Robots, which suddenly thrusts her into literary stardom. This sets off a sequence of events that dramatically upends Zelu’s life and puts her directly in conflict with her parents and siblings. Okorafor’s story explores the perils of fame, the challenges of navigating challenging family dynamics, and the agency of people with disabilities.
In 2008, Okorafor’s The Shadow Speaker was shortlisted in the Youth/Teen category; nearly two decades later, she won with her second nomination. Okorafor’s writings explore Nigerian mythology, African futurism, and Black diaspora experiences, and this award testifies to the mastery of her craft. Death of the Author triumphed, beating a strong list of nominees to take home the prize.
A hearty congratulations, Nnedi!
Sarah Adeyemo
Sarah Adeyemo, Swan IX, is a Nigerian poet, writer, editor, spoken word artiste and communication expert. The debut author of “The Shape of Silence”. She draws inspiration from solitude and experiences. She is a fellow of the SprinNG Writing Fellowship. Her works appeared or are forthcoming in Akpata Magazine, The Shallow Tales Review, The Muse Journal, The Weganda Review, Everscribe Magazine, Afrillhill Press, Poems For Persons Interest, TV-63 Magazine, Northern Writers Forum Journal, Eboquills, Rinna Lit. Anthologies, and elsewhere. She tweets @SarahInkspires.
