Akwaeke Emezi is a Nigerian author celebrated for their boundary-pushing fiction that intersects genres like literary fiction and speculative fiction. Renowned for their ability to weave intricate narratives, Emezi crafts stories that explore identity, transformation, and the mystical with compelling characters and richly immersive settings. Born in Umuahia and raised in Aba, Nigeria, Emezi brings a unique cultural perspective to their work, which stems from a personal journey of navigating multiple identities. Educated at New York University with an MPA in Creative Writing, they are passionate about storytelling that challenges conventional norms and expands the possibilities of narrative art. When not writing, Akwaeke enjoys traveling, connecting with nature, and delving into visual arts.
Akwaeke Emezi made their debut as a novelist in 2018 with the critically acclaimed novel “Freshwater.” Below is a list of Akwaeke Emezi’s books in order of when they were originally released:
Publication Order of Pet books
The book series by Akwaeke Emezi, starting with Bitter and followed by Pet, offers a compelling exploration of themes such as justice, identity, and the complexities of societal constructs. Set in a world where monsters were eradicated, and where peace seems to reign, the series challenges these notions through its richly developed characters and intricate narrative.
In Bitter, readers are introduced to the titular character, Bitter, a talented artist attending Eucalyptus, a school for creative and sensitive minds. Her journey reveals the underlying tensions and unresolved issues that exist even in a seemingly utopian society.
Following this backdrop, Pet continues to delve into these themes by focusing on Jam, a young transgender girl who encounters a being named Pet. Jam, along with her best friend Redemption, must confront uncomfortable truths about their world as they unravel the mysteries that threaten their peaceful city of Lucille.
The series richly illustrates the interplay between innocence and experience, challenging readers to consider what it truly means to confront the darkness and stand for justice, even when the monsters are not easily seen.
Last updated: January 03, 2025