Cover of The Prophet of Zongo Street: Stories

The Prophet of Zongo Street: Stories

A dazzling collection of stories, The Prophet of Zongo Streettakes readers to a world that seamlessly blends African folklore and myths with modernity. Set primarily on Zongo Street, a fictitious community in West Africa, the stories — which are reminiscent of the works of Ben Okri and Amos Tutuola — introduce us to wonderfully quirky characters and the most uproarious, poignant, and rawest moments of life. There's Kumi, the enigmatic title character who teaches a young boy to finally ask questions of his traditions. And as Ali moves his characters to America we meet Felix, who struggles with America's love of the exotic in "Rachmaninov."

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The Prophet of Zongo Streetheralds a new voice and showcases Mohammed Naseehu Ali's extraordinary ability to craft stories that are both allegorical and unforgettable.

Setting
2000sAfrica
Audience
adult
Length
medium · 224 pages

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