Harare Review of Books

224 pages.

First published in 2006.

Finished reading on 28 July 2021.

Genre: Fiction anthology

Publisher’s blurb: A dazzling collection of stories, The Prophet of Zongo Street takes 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.”

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

Stories (stars mine):

⭐ The Story of Day and Night (a creation myth)

⭐ The Prophet of Zongo Street (a man who saw too much)

⭐ Live-in (a woman working as a domestic helper in America)

⭐ The Manhood Test (hilarious and sad, about a man who could not consummate his marriage)

The True Aryan

⭐ Ward G-4 (those hospital wards that people never leave)

Rachmaninov

⭐ Mallam Sile (great for Sile’s wife)

Faith

⭐ Man Pass Man (delightful ghost story)

A fun collection of stories, that I moved up my TBR after reading the very entertaining The Manhood Test in Gods and Soldiers. Some meandering stories set outside Africa, and one very odd one (Rachmaninov 👀👀👀👀), but my favourite were the Zongo Street ones. Recommended!

Rated: 8/10