Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor

Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor is a Kenyan author acclaimed for her vivid storytelling and exploration of African histories and identities. She gained international recognition after winning the 2003 Caine Prize for African Writing for her debut short story, "Weight of Whispers," published in the literary magazine "Kwani?". Her critically praised novel "Dust" (2014) offers a poetic yet unflinching portrayal of Kenya's turbulent postcolonial history, while "The Dragonfly Sea" (2019) further cemented her reputation as a masterful chronicler of interconnected lives across continents.

Owuor's writing blends lyrical prose with deep engagement in political and social themes, often reflecting on displacement, memory, and belonging. Born in Nairobi, she pursued studies in English and television development before transitioning to writing. Her work has appeared in publications like "McSweeney’s", and her story "The Knife Grinder’s Tale" was adapted into a short film in 2005. Beyond literature, she has contributed to the arts as Executive Director of the Zanzibar International Film Festival and participated in projects like the Chinua Achebe Center's "Pilgrimages." Currently, Owuor is working on her third novel, tentatively titled "The Long Decay," continuing her legacy of weaving intricate narratives that resonate with global audiences.