Oneworld’s Magpie imprint has pre-empted the publication of a collection of short stories by Shani Akilah, a debut author. The collection, according to The Bookseller, is entitled “For Such a Time as This”. Described as “a stunning exploration of love, loss, and the power of family”, it is scheduled to be published in 2024.
Akilah is a British-Nigerian writer who was born in London. She has a degree in English Literature from the University of Cambridge. Her short stories have been published in a number of literary magazines, including The Paris Review and Granta.
The editor of Magpie, Juliet Mushens, said that she was “blown away” by Akilah’s stories. She said: “Akilah is a truly gifted writer with a unique voice. Her stories are both beautiful and heartbreaking, and they will stay with you long after you finish reading them.”
Akilah said that she was “thrilled” to be working with Oneworld. She said: “I’m so excited to share my stories with the world. I hope that they will resonate with readers and make them think about love, loss, and family in new ways.”
The pre-empt is a significant coup for Oneworld and Magpie. Akilah is a talented writer with a bright future ahead of her. I am sure that her collection of short stories will be a success.
The pre-empt is also a significant moment for diversity in literature. Akilah is a Black British writer, and her stories will offer a unique perspective on the experiences of Black people in the UK. Her work is sure to resonate with readers from all backgrounds, and it is a welcome addition to the literary landscape.
