binti

Binti is a science fiction novella by Nigerian-American author Nnedi Okorafor, first published in 2015 by Tor.com. It is the opening installment of the Binti trilogy and follows Binti, a young Himba girl from Namibia who leaves her home to study at Oomza University, a prestigious interstellar institution.

On her journey through space, Binti’s transport ship is attacked by the Meduse, an alien species. She uses a combination of mathematical talent and cultural diplomacy rooted in Himba traditions to communicate and negotiate with the Meduse, helping to avert violence. Her response brings a fragile moment of understanding between two civilizations and positions her as a bridge between worlds.

Binti received widespread critical acclaim and won major science fiction awards, notably the Hugo Award for Best Novella and the Nebula Award for Best Novella. The work is noted for blending African cultural elements with space opera and for addressing themes of identity, displacement, tradition versus modernity, and peaceful cross-cultural encounter.

Sequels and legacy: The novella is followed by Binti: Home (2017) and Binti: The Night Masquerade (2018), completing the trilogy. Together, the works explore Binti’s evolving sense of belonging, her relationship to her family and culture, and her role within a broader interstellar community. The Binti trilogy is frequently recognized for expanding the possibilities of science fiction to incorporate African experiences and diaspora narratives.