
Ben Okri
Ben Okri is a renowned Nigerian poet and novelist, celebrated for his imaginative narratives that blend the mystical and the mundane. Born in 1959 in Benin City, Nigeria, Okri's work often explores themes of spirituality, identity, and the complexities of life in post-colonial Africa. He gained international acclaim with his novel 'The Famished Road,' which won the Booker Prize in 1991 and is considered a pivotal work in African literature. Okri's literary style is characterized by its lyrical prose and philosophical depth, and he has published numerous other works, including poetry collections and essays, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Ben Okri’s novel The Famished Road inspired the drift of images on The Bends’ closing track.
From Brontë to Ballard, Orwell to Okri: the best songs inspired by literature – ranked! | MusicAs Ben Okri acknowledges, Golding knew that 'beneath the veneer of civilisation lurks unevolved atavism'.
The Faber Letters – A genius rescued from the slush pile – The Irish TimesBen Okri’s The Famished Road is cited as a significant literary work in the context of magical realism.
Of Mbeere, magical realism and the rich African literary worldBen Okri, a former winner, congratulated Szalay at a reception hosted by Queen Camilla.
‘I really appreciate Roddy Doyle’s simple, practical advice’ – The Irish TimesBen Okri's dreamlike, bold storytelling opened a world of possibility for many readers.
‘A palette unlike anything in the west’: Ben Okri, Yinka Shonibare and more on how Nigerian art revived Britain’s cultural landscape | CultureNigerian author Ben Okri praised Ngũgĩ's act of bluffing himself into his destiny.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, Kenyan author and dissident who became a giant of modern literature, dies at 87 | News















































