The Anatomy of Flying Things (Paperback or Softback)

Afritondo Prize 2023

The Anatomy of Flying Things is a collection of short stories that explore the unfamiliar: unfamiliar people, unfamiliar things. The stories share the joy, wonder and trepidation that arise when we open our hearts and minds to the mysteries that lie just beyond our grasp.

A troubled man fleeing life's adversities encounters a mysterious, seemingly omniscient, stranger on a bus in London.

A young Motswana girl looking to move up in the world entangles herself with a married Scottish expatriate sparking a series of events that unravel into a captivating tale of infidelity, estrangement, and profound self-discovery.

The boundaries of possibility are stretched to their limits as a young up-and-coming trumpeter finds himself propelled into a universe of endless potential by an eccentric jazz aficionado who promises to "take his music to the stars".

As two strangers move into a community, two contrasting journeys of belonging and acceptance unfold, challenging the very essence of friendship and sacrifice.

Whether of aliens or uncanny strangers, each story is a delicately woven piece that takes the reader through many new and unfamiliar worlds.

PRAISE

• "These stories showcase the variety, originality, depth and exuberance of contemporary African storytelling. Each one is a gem of startling beauty that together form a gleaming necklace: a brilliant conversation about the complexities, challenges and joys of our African experiences. A wonderful introduction to the work of these gifted writers."

Doreen Baingana, award-winning author of Tropical Fish.

• "The stories are diverse and touching ... I enjoyed reading each one."

Ayesha Attah, author of The Hundred Wells of Salaga.