Book Review: Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
Most of my recent reading has centered around nonfiction—books packed with practical insight and strategies tied closely to my work in marketing and AI. But now and then, I step away from business books to get lost in fiction that offers not just imagination, but relevance.
My wife recently recommended Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor. She was blown away by it, and after reading it myself, I completely see why. It’s a masterfully written novel that left a lasting impression on both a personal and professional level.
A Vision of the Near Future That Feels Strikingly Familiar
Set in a time that feels just around the corner, the novel paints a world shaped by fast-moving AI adoption and deep societal shifts. At the center is Zelu, a Nigerian American woman and a successful author facing life-altering challenges in the wake of new technologies and shifting power dynamics.
What makes the book especially compelling is that it also contains a second storyline—a story within the story—that mirrors the central themes. This layered structure adds emotional depth and builds a richer understanding of the ideas at play.
Technology, Trust, and the Human Core
Okorafor doesn’t take a one-sided view of AI. Instead, she presents the technology with nuance, showing how it can both elevate and erode aspects of everyday life. Her storytelling challenges readers to think about where we draw the line between automation and authenticity.
Reading this as someone who works in AI and marketing, I found myself reflecting on many of the same questions the book explores—how do we stay connected, real, and ethical in a world driven by machine logic?
Characters That Feel Real and Relevant
The cast is well-developed and emotionally grounded. Their lives feel lived-in, their decisions layered. Zelu in particular stands out—not only for her creativity and inner strength but for the complexity she represents as a disabled Nigerian American woman navigating a high-tech future.
I can’t personally relate to Zelu’s lived experience, but I found her journey incredibly moving and authentic. Okorafor’s writing bridges those gaps beautifully, pulling readers into unfamiliar territory and making it feel intimate.
Final Takeaway
This isn’t just a book about AI or the future of creativity. It’s a story about people—how we adapt, how we fight for control over our narratives, and how we find meaning amid disruption.
Death of the Author is smart, powerful, and deeply human. I highly recommend it—not just because the themes are timely, but because it’s a brilliant story, told with clarity, empathy, and imagination.
#BookReview #AI #Storytelling #FutureOfWork #Innovation #HumanConnection #NnediOkorafor #DigitalEthics
