Manuel Zapata Olivella
Manuel Zapata Olivella was a prominent Afro-Colombian author, anthropologist, and folklorist. Born on March 17, 1920, in Lorica, Córdoba, he was known for his work in documenting and celebrating the African heritage in Latin America. His literary contributions, which include novels, short stories, and essays, often explored themes of racial and cultural identity. One of his most famous works is the novel 'Changó, el gran putas' (1983), which is a narrative that spans the history of the African diaspora in the Americas. Zapata Olivella's work has been influential in Latin American literature and in the recognition of Afro-Latin American culture and history. He passed away on November 19, 2004.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Changó, The Biggest Badass
This novel is a vibrant tapestry of African heritage and the diasporic experience, weaving together the rich history, mythology, and spirituality of the African continent with the brutal realities of slavery in the Americas. It follows the life of Changó, a powerful African king and deity in the Yoruba religion, who embodies strength, passion, and the struggle for justice. Through his journey, the narrative explores themes of resistance, cultural identity, and the enduring spirit of African people as they navigate and influence the New World, all while maintaining a connection to their ancestral roots and traditions.
The 6719th Greatest Book of All Time
