Daniel Olorunfemi Fagunwa (1903-1963) is the Nigerian author who is considered to be a pioneer of novels written in the Yoruba language (an ethnic-linguistic African group that represents 30% of his country´s population). In 1938, he wrote Ogboju ode ninu igbo irunmale (Forest of a Thousand Demons), which is considered to be the first novel written in Yoruba and one of the first to be published in an African language. This book was followed by others, including Igbo olodumare (The Forest of God, 1949) or Irikerindo ninu igbo elegbeje (Expedition to the Mount of Thought, 1954).

In general, Fagunwa´s writing describe Yoruba traditions, including supernatural elements such as spirits, monsters or gods, while his heroes tend to be hunters who interact with kings and wise men. His work has been recognised with awards such as the Margaret Wong in 1955, or titles such as Member of the Order of the British Empire in 1959. He died at the age of 60 in a car accident.

Sources:

• http://en.allexperts.com

• www.britannica.com