Banner PC

Yaa Gyasi

Yaa Gyasi, a renowned Ghanaian-American author, was born in 1989 in Mampong, Ghana, and later moved to the United States as a child. Her debut novel, Homegoing (2016), quickly gained international acclaim for its powerful portrayal of the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. The book spans over 300 years, tracing the descendants of two half-sisters, Effia and Esi, and their separate paths—one in Africa and the other in America—revealing the profound impact of slavery on both continents. Gyasi’s writing often explores themes of identity, displacement, and the complexities of family ties. Her work delves deeply into the African diaspora, highlighting the emotional and historical struggles of individuals caught in the web of colonialism and slavery. Gyasi earned her MFA from the University of Iowa Writers' Workshop, where she honed her craft. Homegoing was praised for its intricacy, scope, and emotional depth, earning Gyasi numerous accolades, including the National Book Award for Fiction. In 2020, Gyasi followed up with her second novel, Transcendent Kingdom, which continues her exploration of identity, addiction, and science within the African-American experience. Gyasi’s storytelling is celebrated for its depth, resilience, and exploration of generational trauma, solidifying her as one of the most significant voices in contemporary literature.

Books by Yaa Gyasi


Famous Authors

See All

Bestsellers

See All