The shortlist for the Toyin Fálọlá Prize 2024 was announced in Lagos, Nigeria on Friday, July 5, 2024.
The Toyin Fálọlá Prize is an award for short stories from Nigeria-based Lunaris aimed at honouring distinguished African scholar and foremost historian, Prof Toyin Fálọlá. It celebrates his contributions to the advancement of African cultures, peoples, myths, and histories. Previous winners of the award set up in 2020 have been Abdulrahim Hussani, Fayssal Bensalah, and Tshepiso Mabula.
The longlist for the 2024 edition of the prize was announced on June 6 before the shortlist was revealed on Friday. Those on the shortlist are;
- Fibers from the deep, Divine Inyang Titus
- The Blood We Tie, Immaculate Halla
- The Harvestor’s Commandment, Mohammad Haruna
- A Place Like Here, Mlilo Mpondo
- The Recrudescence, Nwafor Emmanuel
Here are the comments on the shortlisted entries;
- Fibers from the deep, Divine Inyang Titus’, We praise for its probing exploration of its main character’s journey through spiritual questioning, family dynamics, and personal growth amidst turmoil. It delves deep into themes of identity, belief, and connection, culminating in a poignant exploration of love and loss within the family amidst steadfast faith.
- A Place like Here, Mlilo Mpondo – Strength lies in its authentic portrayal of marginalised characters navigating Yeoville’s gritty streets and the contrasting northern suburbs of Johannesburg. This story weaves together themes of identity, survival, and resilience through vivid storytelling and cultural insights, offering a compelling exploration of human experiences and societal inequities and inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of urban life and the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.
- The Harvestor’s Commandment, Mohammad Haruna – Intricately weaves themes of privilege, moral dilemma, and spiritual redemption through Tasam’s journey from luxury to expulsion and ultimate pilgrimage. It offers a poignant take on the consequences of transgressing sacred duties in pursuit of power and understanding.
- The Blood We Tie, Immaculate Halla – Halla captivates with its arresting portrayal of familial loyalty and moral dilemmas amidst profound personal struggles. Through the main character’s harrowing choices and the sisters’ unwavering support, the narrative sets the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting repercussions of buried secrets.
- The Recrudescence, Nwafor Emmanuel – It enthralls with its vivid depiction of a village upended by the mysterious stranger Mmiri, whose arrival ignites a tumult of greed, envy, and otherworldly repercussions. Through vibrant characters and a compelling storyline, the narrative delves into the clash between human desires and divine intervention, weaving moral quandaries and unforeseen twists that captivate readers until its haunting resolution.
The winner will be announced in due course.
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