Chris Abani
Novelist
A Nigerian-born author, he is best known for his debut novel, Masters of the Board, and for his 1987 novel, Sirocco. His other works include a novel entitled GraceLand and a poetry collection called Dog Woman.
He received his undergraduate degree in Nigeria before studying at Birkbeck College-University of London and at the University of Southern California.
His poetry collection, Sanctificum, combines elements of Nigerian language and sacred ritual and makes use of the rhythmical innovations of reggae music.
His mother was born in England, and his father was a native Nigerian.
He is a literary contemporary of California-born author Anastasia Ashman.