Picture a Nigerian American storyteller weaving West African mythology into heart-pounding fantasy—meet Moses Ose Utomi! From his first tale at age five about Martian warrior bunnies to his acclaimed novels, Utomi’s unique voice blends cultural richness with psychological thriller pacing, captivating readers worldwide. Now based in Honolulu, Hawaii, this nomad’s stories are as vibrant as his travels.
The Making of Moses Ose Utomi
Born to Nigerian immigrant parents, Moses Ose Utomi grew up steeped in West African culture and mythology, which deeply shapes his storytelling. His love for books sparked early, with childhood favorites like Elizabeth Winthrop’s The Castle in the Attic igniting a sense of wonder. By age five, he penned his first story, proudly preserved by his mother. Utomi’s academic journey led him to a Master of Fine Arts in fiction from Sarah Lawrence College, complemented by a Certificate in Book Publishing. These honed his craft, blending scholarly precision with raw creativity.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Utomi’s restless spirit saw him traveling widely, training in martial arts, and even belting out karaoke—backing track optional. This eclectic life infuses his work with authenticity and dynamism, making his stories resonate with diverse readers.
Moses Ose Utomi’s Unforgettable Stories
Utomi’s debut young adult novel, Daughters of Oduma (2023), is a vibrant tale of sisterhood and strength, inspired by West African culture. It follows Dirt, an elite female fighter, navigating a magical combat sport called Bowing. Critics praised its immersive worldbuilding and Nigerian pidgin-infused dialogue, with Publishers Weekly calling it an “absorbing, striking debut.” The novel’s focus on powerful Black girls and chosen family struck a chord, earning it a devoted following.
His adult fantasy trilogy, The Forever Desert, begins with The Lies of the Ajungo (2023), a Saharan-inspired novella. It follows Tutu, a boy on a quest to save his drought-stricken City of Lies, only to uncover devastating truths. Its explosive action and folkloric depth drew comparisons to Evan Winter’s The Burning series. The sequel, The Truth of the Aleke (2024), continues this epic fable, exploring truth and history 500 years later. Utomi’s signature style—fantasy with thriller pacing—shines, blending vivid settings with profound themes of identity and sacrifice.
Utomi’s short fiction, published in outlets like Fireside Fiction and Fantasy Magazine, showcases his versatility. His stories often draw from Nigerian folklore, offering fresh perspectives on universal themes, making them both accessible and culturally rich.
Why Moses Ose Utomi Matters
Moses Ose Utomi’s work is a bridge between cultures, bringing West African mythology to global audiences while challenging conventional fantasy tropes. His Nigerian American perspective—neither fully of one world nor the other—infuses his tales with a unique duality, as he explores identity, truth, and resilience. By centering Black characters and authentic voices, Utomi enriches the genre, inspiring readers and writers alike.
His influence extends beyond books. As a martial artist and nomad, Utomi embodies the restless creativity he writes about, encouraging fans to embrace their own stories. His growing presence on platforms like Instagram and TikTok fosters a community eager for diverse fantasy narratives.
- Born: Nigerian American, specific birth date unavailable
- Key Works: Daughters of Oduma, The Lies of the Ajungo, The Truth of the Aleke
- Hobbies: Martial arts, travel, karaoke
- Education: MFA in Fiction, Sarah Lawrence College
Ready to dive into a world where mythology meets thriller? Grab Daughters of Oduma or The Lies of the Ajungo and let Moses Ose Utomi’s fantasy sweep you away!