Alain Mabanckou (born February 24, 1966, Mouyondzi, Congo [now Republic of the Congo]) is a prolific Francophone Congolese poet and novelist whose wordplay, philosophical bent, and sometimes sly and often absurd sense of humor resulted in his being known in France as “the African Samuel Beckett.” Acclaimed for his works addressing the consequences of colonialism in Africa, Mabanckou is one of the most popular Francophone African writers in contemporary literature.
Alain Mabanckou (born February 24, 1966, Mouyondzi, Congo [now Republic of the Congo]) is a prolific Francophone Congolese poet and novelist whose wordplay, philosophical bent, and sometimes sly and often absurd sense of humor resulted in his being known in France as “the African Samuel Beckett.” Acclaimed for his works addressing the consequences of colonialism in Africa, Mabanckou is one of the most popular Francophone African writers in contemporary literature.
Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
VideoMay 12 2026
Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A
Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
VideoMay 8 2026
Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A
Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.
