Remote Control

A young girl in near-future Ghana encounters a mysterious seed that transforms her into a being with supernatural powers. She takes on the name Sankofa and begins to wander the land, gaining a reputation as both death's messenger and a figure of folk legend. The story takes place in a Ghana where technology and tradition intermingle - artificial intelligence exists alongside ancient beliefs, and corporations vie for control of resources while village life continues. Sankofa must navigate this complex landscape while coming to terms with her abilities and isolation. This science fiction novella combines elements of African mythology, futuristic technology, and personal journey. The narrative examines human connection, power, and identity in a world balanced between progress and tradition.

Readers praise the unique blend of African folklore with science fiction elements and the memorable protagonist Sankofa. Many note the novella's exploration of power, identity, and technology through a distinct cultural lens. Common praise points: - Fast-paced narrative style - Rich Nigerian cultural elements - Complex moral questions - Atmospheric world-building Common criticisms: - Story feels rushed at times - Some plot threads left unresolved - Wanted more background/context - Length too short for full character development As one reader noted: "The mythology and tech elements mesh perfectly, but I needed more time with these characters." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (11,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (1,200+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (300+ ratings) Several reviewers mention that while the novella format creates intensity, they would have preferred a full-length novel to further explore the world and characters.

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🌍 "Sankofa" is a word from the Akan people of Ghana meaning "go back and get it," symbolizing the importance of learning from the past 🏆 Nnedi Okorafor coined the term "Africanfuturism" to distinguish it from Afrofuturism, emphasizing stories that are specifically African-centered rather than African-American 🛰️ The book's integration of artificial satellites reflects Ghana's real-world space program, which launched its first satellite in 2017 ✍️ The author drew inspiration from her Nigerian heritage and her experiences traveling in Africa, infusing authentic cultural elements into her science fiction narratives 🎬 Okorafor's work "Who Fears Death" is being adapted into an HBO series with George R.R. Martin as executive producer, showcasing the growing mainstream appeal of African-inspired science fiction