Spears Books Announces the Signing of Award-Winning Author Makuchi for New Short Story Collection
Spears Books is thrilled to announce the signing of distinguished literary scholar, essayist, and creative writer Makuchi for the publication of her upcoming short story collection, Woman of the Lake. This highly anticipated work is scheduled for release in the Summer of 2026.
Makuchi, the pen name of Juliana Makuchi Nfah-Abbenyi, brings a masterful and profound voice to the Spears Books family. Born in Cameroon and educated at the University of Yaoundé and McGill University, she currently serves as the Associate Dean of Faculty and Staff Development and Success and as a Distinguished Professor of English and Comparative Literature at North Carolina State University.
As a past president of the African Literature Association, Makuchi is widely celebrated for her extensive contributions to African and African diaspora literatures. She is the author of notable fiction, including Your Madness, Not Mine: Stories of Cameroon and The Sacred Door and Other Stories: Cameroon Folktales of the Beba. Her exceptional storytelling has consistently garnered critical acclaim; her story “Woman of the Lake” was previously nominated for the prestigious Pushcart Prize, and “Land of My Dreams” earned an honorable mention in the 2023 Best Short Story award category from the African Literature Association.
“We are incredibly proud and excited to welcome Makuchi to our roster of authors,” the editorial team noted. “Her narratives capture complex identities, cultures, and experiences with remarkable depth and grace. Woman of the Lake promises to be a captivating addition to our creative catalog, and we cannot wait to share her latest stories with readers around the world.”
Woman of the Lake will immerse readers in Makuchi’s vibrant and insightful storytelling, continuing her legacy of centering compelling narratives and nuanced characters.
For more information, interview requests, and future updates regarding pre-orders for Woman of the Lake, please visit our website and follow Spears Books on social media.
About Spears Books:
Spears Books is an independent publisher dedicated to bringing outstanding African and Africana fiction, children’s literature, poetry, and academic titles to a global audience.
