Picture a storyteller who weaves urban fantasy with vibrant diversity and sharp social commentary—meet Na’amen Gobert Tilahun! This American author, celebrated for his Wrath & Athenaeum trilogy, crafts worlds where gods, magic, and identity collide. From the gritty streets of San Francisco to the mysterious Zebub, Tilahun’s stories captivate with their bold narratives and unforgettable characters.
Born and raised between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Tilahun’s unique perspective shapes his work, blending multicultural experiences with mythological flair. His debut novel, The Root, burst onto the scene in 2016, earning praise for its fresh take on urban fantasy. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this rising star!
The Making of Na’amen Gobert Tilahun
Na’amen Gobert Tilahun spent his childhood shuttling between the vibrant cultures of Los Angeles and San Francisco, soaking up the diversity that would later define his writing. His passion for storytelling sparked early, with a self-made book earning an honorable mention in a seventh-grade contest—a moment his mom still cherishes! Tilahun took writing seriously in college, studying world religions and mythology, which fueled his fascination with epic narratives. As a bookseller and freelance writer, he honed his craft, publishing poetry, fiction, and essays across platforms like io9.com and Stone Telling.
His big break came through a serendipitous connection with editor Jeremy Lassen, who asked about his projects. This led to the creation of the Wrath & Athenaeum trilogy, a bold urban fantasy series that challenges genre norms. Tilahun’s journey wasn’t without hurdles—he negotiated his first contract solo after struggling to find an agent, proving his determination to share his stories with the world.
Na’amen Gobert Tilahun’s Unforgettable Stories
Tilahun’s Wrath & Athenaeum trilogy—The Root (2016), The Tree (2018), and The Fruit (2019)—redefines urban fantasy. Set in modern-day San Francisco and the alternate dimension of Zebub, the series follows Erik, a Black gay man with godlike powers, and Lil, a timid apprentice uncovering dark secrets. The Root introduces this dual-world saga, blending gritty action with themes of race, sexuality, and identity. Its diverse cast and vivid settings earned it a spot on the ALA’s 2017 Rainbow List.
The Tree deepens the stakes, weaving intricate plots and queer relationships that resonate with readers. The Fruit concludes the trilogy, delivering a thrilling finale praised for its emotional depth. Tilahun’s style shines through his “25% plotter, 75% pantser” approach, allowing characters to evolve organically. His worlds brim with creepy creatures, fallen angels, and secret societies, all grounded in human drama. Beyond novels, Tilahun’s short fiction, like contributions to The Best Small Fictions 2017, showcases his versatility.
What sets Tilahun apart is his commitment to diversity. His characters—gay, transgender, and multiethnic—reflect the real world, particularly San Francisco’s melting pot. He deftly explores social issues without overpowering the plot, earning acclaim from authors like Charlie Jane Anders for his “exciting portal fantasy.”
Why Na’amen Gobert Tilahun Matters
Na’amen Gobert Tilahun’s impact lies in his ability to push boundaries in speculative fiction. By centering marginalized voices, he challenges the genre’s stereotypes, offering heroes who defy the “straight white guy” trope. His work resonates with readers seeking authentic, inclusive stories, inspiring a new wave of diverse fantasy writers. Recognized as one of 7x7 magazine’s “13 Bay Area Authors to Watch” in 2016, Tilahun’s influence continues to grow.
His podcast, The Adventures of Yellow Peril & Magical Negro, co-hosted with a friend, amplifies geek culture through a queer, POC lens, further cementing his cultural footprint. Tilahun’s blend of mythology, social awareness, and heart makes him a vital voice in modern fantasy, with fans eagerly awaiting his next project.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: The Root, The Tree, The Fruit, The Best Small Fictions 2017
- Awards: ALA Rainbow List (2017) for The Root
- Fun Fact: He’s working on a high fantasy novella set in the world of Batomi!
Snag The Root and dive into Na’amen Gobert Tilahun’s thrilling urban fantasy world—your bookshelf will thank you!