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Literary Fiction· Zambia

The Old Drift

by Namwali Serpell
Aggregate Editorial Score61/100
★Booker Prizearthur-c-clarke
Published 2019English
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About This Book

Namwali Serpell's The Old Drift (2019) stands as one of the most significant works of literary fiction of its era. The Old Drift is a multi-generational saga that weaves together the stories of three families over the course of a century in Zambia. Combining elements of historical fiction and magical realism, the novel explores themes of colonialism, identity, and technological progress. Namwali Serpell's debut novel has been praised for its ambitious narrative structure and rich, imaginative storytelling. Themes of colonialism, identity, technology run through the work. The book has received recognition from Arthur C. Clarke Award 2020.

Book Details

AuthorNamwali Serpell
Published2019
Country of Origin🇿🇲 Zambia
LanguageEnglish
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9781101907153
Editorial Score61/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇿🇲 Zambia

This book is part of Zambia's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Zambia →

Editorial Assessment

The Old Drift by Namwali Serpell sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 2019 in Zambia, it engages with colonialism, identity, technology, family in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Among its recognitions: Arthur C. Clarke Award 2020. Its aggregate editorial score of 61/100 reflects recognition from 2 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to The Old Drift for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of colonialism, identity, technology, family is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Zambia's literary landscape, Namwali Serpell occupies a significant position. The Old Drift is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 2 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Booker Prize
notable · global
20190
arthur-c-clarke
winner · global
20200
✍️
About the Author
Namwali Serpell
Zambia
View Author →

Namwali Serpell is a Zambia author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Old Drift about?

The Old Drift is a multi-generational saga that weaves together the stories of three families over the course of a century in Zambia. Combining elements of historical fiction and magical realism, the novel explores themes of colonialism, identity, and technological progress. Namwali Serpell's debut novel has been praised for its ambitious narrative structure and rich, imaginative storytelling.

Who wrote The Old Drift?

The Old Drift was written by Namwali Serpell, from Zambia. First published in 2019.

What awards has The Old Drift won?

The Old Drift has received the following recognition: Arthur C. Clarke Award 2020.

Is The Old Drift worth reading?

The Old Drift is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 61/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in colonialism, identity, technology.

Where can I buy The Old Drift?

You can buy The Old Drift on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Old Drift?

The Old Drift is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is The Old Drift from?

The Old Drift originates from Zambia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Zambia on our country page.

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