Picture a storyteller who weaves African mythology into heart-pounding young adult fantasy—meet Ayana Gray! A New York Times bestselling author, Gray captivates readers with her vivid worlds and unforgettable characters. Her debut, Beasts of Prey, launched a trilogy that’s taken the literary world by storm, blending magic, monsters, and #MelaninMagic with a Pan-African flair.
When she’s not crafting epic tales, Gray cheers for Formula One racing, fusses over her mini goldendoodle, Dolly, and keeps tabs on her adopted baby black rhino, Apollo. From Atlanta roots to Arkansas hills, her journey is as vibrant as the stories she tells.
The Making of Ayana Gray
Born on March 13, 1993, in Atlanta, Georgia, Ayana Gray grew up with a love for stories that sparked her imagination. At thirteen, she moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where she graduated from Pulaski Academy. Her passion for political science and African and African-American Studies at the University of Arkansas shaped her worldview. A study abroad experience in Ghana, coupled with an honors colloquium on political violence, ignited the spark for Beasts of Prey, her debut novel started in 2015. Gray’s time as a nanny in Australia and her knack for planning—think Steve Irwin-level enthusiasm—added layers to her creative journey.
Ayana Gray’s Unforgettable Stories
Gray’s Beasts of Prey trilogy is a masterclass in world-building, set in the Pan-African-inspired city of Lkossa. The first book, published in 2021, follows Koffi, a beastkeeper indentured to the Night Zoo, and Ekon, a warrior-in-training, as they hunt the Shetani, a monstrous creature. Their adventure through the Greater Jungle brims with African mythology, betrayals, and a budding romance. Critics like Roshani Chokshi call it “transcending,” praising its lush prose and emotional depth.
The sequel, Beasts of Ruin (2022), deepens Koffi’s magical powers and Ekon’s secrets as they face a god of death. The trilogy’s finale, Beasts of War, ties their fates together with high-stakes action. Gray’s style—lyrical, vivid, and steeped in African lore—sets her apart. Her characters, unapologetically Black, navigate complex themes of freedom and destiny, earning her a Netflix film adaptation and translations in ten languages.
Gray’s ability to blend fast-paced plots with cultural richness makes her work a standout in young adult fantasy. Fans of Namina Forna or Tomi Adeyemi will find her stories irresistible, with short, punchy chapters that keep you hooked.
Why Ayana Gray Matters
Ayana Gray is redefining young adult fantasy by centering Black teens in magical narratives free of racial trauma. Her Pan-African settings and meticulous research, detailed in her books’ author notes, celebrate African heritage while inviting global readers into her worlds. Her trilogy’s success, from bestseller lists to Netflix, proves the hunger for diverse voices in speculative fiction. Gray’s influence inspires new authors to embrace their roots, making her a trailblazer for #MelaninMagic.
Her engagement with fans, from social media to bookstore events, builds a community around her stories. As she pens new tales, Gray’s legacy as a storyteller who champions culture and imagination only grows.
About Ayana Gray
- Born: March 13, 1993, in Atlanta, Georgia
- Key Works: Beasts of Prey (2021), Beasts of Ruin (2022), Beasts of War
- Notable: New York Times bestseller, Netflix film adaptation in development
- Fun Fact: Avid Formula One fan and caregiver to a mini goldendoodle and a baby black rhino
Snag Beasts of Prey and dive into Ayana Gray’s thrilling world of monsters, magic, and adventure—you won’t want to leave the Greater Jungle!