Anglo-Nigerian writer explains why she chose an African publisher over a western one

Sarah Ladipo Manyika, Anglo-Nigerian writer and author of Like A Mule Bringing Ice Cream To The Sun explains why she chose Cassava republic press, a publishing firm established in Nigeria over a western publisher.

In an interview published by Guardian UK, Ladipo Manyika said "Some people are sceptical about my decision to work with an African publisher, especially given the fact that I live in America and have access to American and European agents. They ask: does my decision make economic sense? Will an African publisher do as well as a western publisher? The assumption is that the west does things better than Africa."

She added that while this may be true, her experience outweighs any sense of risk.

"My first book was published by a British publishing house, which then sold the Nigerian rights to Cassava, who proved themselves savvy and diligent custodians of my work. Moreover, unencumbered by some of the stereotypes of what so-called “African literature” should look like, they were able to think creatively and offer fresh ideas on everything from book jackets to marketing strategies. The covers of both my books eschew the lazy visual tropes that are often relied upon by the publishers of African-authored literature in the west (think sunsets, bare torsos, palm trees). Instead, they are thoughtfully designed with a view to capturing the true essence of the books."

"It is precisely because of this flexibility and creativity that African publishers such as Cassava are so valuable to readers and writers. They help combat the centrifugal tendencies of an industry that is increasingly drawn to derivative products (the next Harry Potter, the next Fifty Shades of Grey). And their instinctive “crossover” cosmopolitanism allows them to serve a readership base that is broader and richer than previously imagined."

Born by a Nigerian Father, and a British Mother, Ladipo Manyika praised the brains behind the establishment of the Cassava Republic Press, a publishing company that started in Nigeria, and now opening an office in the UK.

"The arrival of Cassava Republic Press in the UK is an important moment in the history of publishing. I am proud to rely on one of Africa’s trailblazing publishers to bring us new names and new stories that will enrich and expand the world’s literature."

Read her full interview in The Guardian U.K.

READ: Leading African publishing house to launch in the U.K