In a groundbreaking literary venture, the Sauútiverse Anthology is making its debut on the crowdfunding stage, ushering readers into an enchanting world inspired by a fusion of African cultures created by The Sauúti Collective. The very 1st African collaborative science-fantasy shared world.
Helmed by editor Wole Talabi, this inaugural book of this shared fictional realm is a tapestry of awe, enigma, and enchantment, and it’s all set to unfold in “Mothersound: The Sauútiverse Anthology.”
Marking the inaugural grand-scale endeavor within this shared universe, the anthology is a treasure trove of short stories and novellas that transport readers into a civilization steeped in a captivating blend of African cultural perspectives. Among the brilliant minds contributing to this anthology are luminaries like Nebula Award finalist Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, World Fantasy Award nominee Eugen Bacon, New York Times bestselling author Tobias S. Buckell, Caine Prize nominee T.L. Huchu, Adelehin Ijasan, Stephen Embleton, Akintoba Kalejaye, Cheryl S. Ntumy, Xan Van Rooyen, Dare Segun Falowo, Eye Kay Nwaogu, J. Umeh, and Somto Ihezue. The artwork that graces the pages is masterfully crafted by Stephen Embleton and Akintoba Kalejaye. This literary marvel boasts a foreword by Fabrice Guerrier, the visionary founder of Syllble Studios, and offers:
A staggering 120,000 words of immersive storytelling.
A captivating collection of 14 short stories and novellas.
A gallery brimming with dozens of exquisite works of art.
The crowdfunding campaign offers a variety of pledge levels, including signed books and the opportunity to support the talented contributors who have breathed life into this ambitious project.
But what sets the Sauútiverse apart is its innovative concept. This shared world is poised to spearhead a riveting new series that promises to captivate readers and unveil a realm of science fiction and fantasy crafted by the skilled hands of African writers. Nestled within Sauúti—a science-fantasy realm inspired by Africa—this literary creation is a fusion of Black Panther’s charisma and Wild Cards’ intrigue, all infused with the profound spacefaring worldbuilding reminiscent of Dune.
The name “Sauúti” derives from the Swahili word “Sauti,” which means “voice.” Sauúti, a five-planet system circling a binary star, is deeply rooted in a rich tapestry of African mythology, languages, and cultures.
The Sauútiverse unfolds a complex magic system interwoven with the sonorous echoes of oral traditions and music, while also venturing into the realms of science fiction, replete with artificial intelligence and interstellar travel. Here, readers encounter a diverse array of both humanoid and non-humanoid beings, adding depth and diversity to this enchanting universe.
As the Sauútiverse Anthology being published by Android Press takes flight through its crowdfunding campaign, it offers readers an opportunity to embark on a literary journey like no other. With its tapestry of African-inspired cultures, innovative storytelling, and a diverse cast of characters, this anthology promises to be a resounding testament to the boundless imagination of African writers, inviting readers to experience the magic of the Sauútiverse firsthand.