Some author chats feel like you’re rushing against the clock. This one? We could’ve talked forever. Francesca Ekwuyasi joined me for a soul-nourishing conversation about her debut novel, Butter Honey Pig Bread, a lush, multi-layered story of motherhood, queerness, food, grief, and the mysticism of Ogbanje lore. Set across continents but deeply rooted in Nigerian identity, this book had me gushing so much online, people thought I was on the marketing team. I wasn’t. I just really loved it.

Francesca’s quiet confidence as a storyteller was evident throughout our chat. She speaks like someone who knows they’re meant to do this work, and her book proves it. We talked about family, healing, and the pleasures of writing (and reading) about food. Bonus: she dropped so many book recommendations that this episode could double as a TBR builder.

Though she’s based in Canada, Francesca’s voice is authentically Nigerian, and Butter Honey Pig Bread is a powerful addition to contemporary African literature. It’s already been translated into Italian, and that’s just the beginning.

If you haven’t met this literary force yet, now’s the time. This episode will age like fine wine, just like her writing.

You can listen to the episode on Spotify HERE, but it’s available on all other streaming platforms.