Dakar, Senegal - A new voice in Senegalese literature has emerged with the publication of "Hidden, sous les masques", a debut novel by 19-year-old Salif Sagna. The book, published in December 2025 by Le Lys Bleu, delves into the psychological aspects of vengeance, secrets, and power dynamics. The novel tells the story of two young protagonists, Tidiane and Safiatou, who infiltrate a powerful family in Dubai to uncover the truth about their parents' mysterious death.
The novel, comprising 140 pages, was officially presented to the public during a book signing ceremony in Dakar over the weekend. According to the author, the story revolves around the themes of hidden truths, power struggles, and their impact on everyday life. Sagna's inspiration for the novel stems from his interest in exploring the destructive nature of hatred and vengeance. He aims to show readers how these emotions can affect individuals and those around them.
Salif Sagna's passion for writing dates back to his childhood, and he claims to have completed the manuscript for "Hidden, sous les masques" at the age of 17. The young author is currently pursuing a degree in science at the Institut supérieur de management (ISM) in Dakar. Despite his academic commitments, Sagna is working on the second installment of his novel, which is expected to be released in mid-2027.
The sequel to "Hidden, sous les masques" will be more focused on Senegal, with a greater emphasis on emotions and suspense, according to Sagna. He also envisions adapting his novel into an audiovisual production and has already initiated discussions with production companies, including Yvonne Croud and Marodi. Sagna's debut novel has generated significant interest, and his future projects are highly anticipated.
During the book signing ceremony, Sagna shared his writing philosophy, advising young aspiring writers to focus on the joy of writing rather than seeking publication. He believes that writing should be a source of pleasure, and that the pursuit of publication should not overshadow the creative process. Sagna's advice has resonated with many young writers in Senegal.
"Hidden, sous les masques" has been well-received by readers and critics alike, with many praising Sagna's unique perspective and writing style. The novel's exploration of complex themes has sparked important discussions about the human condition. As a young author, Sagna's achievement is notable, and his work is expected to contribute to the growth of Senegalese literature.
Salif Sagna's literary debut marks an exciting new chapter in Senegalese literature. His work reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and offers a fresh perspective on universal themes. As he continues to write and publish, Sagna is likely to become a prominent figure in the Senegalese literary scene.
Key points
- Salif Sagna's debut novel "Hidden, sous les masques" explores themes of vengeance, secrecy, and power dynamics.
- The young author is working on a second installment of his novel, expected to be released in mid-2027.
- Sagna advises young writers to focus on the joy of writing, rather than seeking publication.
