African mythology, history take centre stage at 'Amane Adesa' reading

Dade Krama Studios has held a live reading of its epic fantasy literary work, Amane Adesa – Of Monsters and Gods, in Accra. The event, dubbed “A Gathering Under the Neem”, was held over the weekend in collaboration with The Velvet Hut, an African art and cultural space located in Labone. The gathering sought to promote African culture, history and storytelling from an African perspective through literature and artistic expression. The live narration featured leading voice artiste Mawuli Sachey, who performed excerpts from Amane Adesa – Of Monsters and Gods. In a remotely televised speech, the author of the book, N.O.M Tutu Ani, said the work draws inspiration from African cultures, locations, traditions, incantations, kingdoms, tribes and peoples. “This is Africa speaking. Amane Adesa draws from real African cultures, real locations, real traditions, incantations, kingdoms, tribes, and peoples. It’s about the characters, the worldview, the magic. It’s the kind of story that makes you say: ‘Ah, this is African history. This is African culture and tradition,’” Tutu Ani said. “From the very first page, you’ll feel it. It comes across as almost present, almost real especially to the African reader. Amane Adesa blurs the line between what is real and what is not,” the author added. The author explained that each chapter begins with a quotation, with some drawn from traditional proverbs and others created to complement the story. According to Tutu Ani, the quotations provide clues about ancient gods, incantations and civilisations featured in the work. Amane Adesa combines mythology and historical narratives, taking readers through ancient African routes, landmarks, cultures and traditions while exploring themes of identity and self-discovery. The event also featured music and a solo recital centred on questions about humanity and the purpose of life. The programme ended with a raffle draw, through which selected members of the audience received hardcover and paperback copies of Amane Adesa – Of Monsters and Gods. The event was moderated by columnist and insurance regulator Mawuli Zogbenu. Amane Adesa is a product of Dade Krama Studios Ltd and is available in audiobook and e-book formats through the company’s AKRÁBÀÀ app on iOS and Android. The hardcover and paperback editions are also available through the app and can be ordered directly from Dade Krama Studios. Source: Ellen Sarbah, Contributor
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