An Uncompromising Narrative
In her prequel to ‘Who Fears Death,’ Nnedi Okorafor presents ‘She Who Knows,’ a story that continues her fearless exploration of post-apocalyptic landscapes and deeply entrenched societal norms. This novel dives back into the life of Najeeba, a character familiar to readers of Okorafor’s previous works.
Najeeba’s Journey
Those acquainted with ‘Who Fears Death’ will recall Najeeba’s harrowing survival from a brutal rape by the sorcerer Daib. In ‘She Who Knows,’ Okorafor unfurls Najeeba’s history, illustrating how her resilience was forged. The novel unveils how Najeeba’s spirit of defiance was cultivated and in turn, prepared her daughter, Onyesonwu, for her revolutionary journey.
Injustice and Resistance
Okorafor’s narrative is deeply rooted in the realities of discrimination, much like our present world but stripped of any pretenses. The novel continues to confront the themes of sexism and sexual violence head-on, with no room for euphemisms or allegory. ‘She Who Knows’ explores the seemingly simplistic but deeply ingrained societal expectations that prevent women from performing certain tasks simply because of their gender.
The Salt Roads
At 13, Najeeba challenges one such societal norm by expressing her desire to journey the salt roads, an endeavor supposedly reserved for men. Her declaration sets off a series of events that expose the senseless nature of the sexism she faces. Unlike the brutal necessity for survival in ‘Who Fears Death,’ the discrimination in Najeeba’s community is more insidious, perpetuated by tradition and dependence on the status quo.
Courage Against Injustice
Nnedi Okorafor’s ‘She Who Knows’ is not just a narrative of a singular heroic journey but a vital part of her Africanfuturism oeuvre. The novel underscores a central theme: injustice persists because it is deemed safe, and it takes unparalleled courage to uproot such deeply entrenched beliefs. Najeeba’s story is a testament to resilience, a familiar yet invigorating tale for fans and new readers alike.
