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Monster Culture Nnedi Okorafor Analysis

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Imagine a world where humans, extraterrestrials, and technology become one; where messages are sent through brainwaves and mythical creatures roam the earth. Nnedi Okorafor is a Nigerian American science fiction author who captures this alternate universe. She combines the richness of African culture with the mysteriousness of other worlds; the result is a captivating tale of heroism across cultural and spiritual barriers. Binti is the story of an African girl who lives in the desert with her family. However, she longs to attend Oomza Uni, a prestigious school across the galaxy. Binti’s family and friends disagree with her attending, even though she was the first of her Himba people to be accepted. The reluctance of her people does not deter Binti; she sneaks out one morning, boards a shuttle, and heads to Oomza Uni. …show more content…

The majority of the story takes place as Binti heads to Oomza Uni and once she arrives. However, Binti’s decision to attend Oomza Uni was not taken lightly. Himba women are not to leave their homeland unless embarking on their sacred pilgrimage. Binti risked losing the trust of her family and entire village. She risked becoming a monster in their eyes. Monster Culture (Seven Theses) is a theoretical work written by Jeffrey Jerome Cohen that explores this idea of monstrosity. A “monster” is an ever-present being that stands for nonconformity and elimination of social constructs. People who hold narrow viewpoints and prejudices deem a “monster” monstrous. Binti and Binti: Home highlights the reality of racism, the fear of the “other,” and the merging of

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