In a celebration of women's literature, ten Senegalese writers have collaborated on a new collection of short stories titled "À Contre-Plumes". The book is the result of a writing residency held at the French Institute in Dakar in April 2026, where the writers worked together under the guidance of authors Sokhna Benga and Mariétou Seck Samb. The collection features stories that explore themes of identity, imagination, and everyday life.
The writers behind "À Contre-Plumes" are Hadassa Mai Lan Gaelle Ndoye, Anna Diedhiou, Maimouna Diallo, Fati Abubacar, Aminata Bocar Ba, Thiongane Awa, Fatoumata Koita, Christina N’da, Marie Paul Weecar Basse, and Gael Hottmongo. Their work is a testament to the diversity and richness of women's writing in Senegal. The collection is published by Le Fil d’Ariane, with Mame Ngone Faye as the editor.
The "À Contre-Plumes" collection is part of a larger effort to promote women's voices in literature. Amina Seck, founder of the Dakar Women's Book Fair, sees the book as a milestone in the creation of spaces for women writers to share their work and connect with each other. The book fair, now in its fifth edition, aims to foster a community of women writers and readers.
The stories in "À Contre-Plumes" are characterized by their diversity of tone and perspective. The writers explore themes of identity, love, family, and social issues, offering a nuanced portrayal of women's experiences in Senegal. The collection is a reflection of the writers' individual styles and voices, while also showcasing their shared commitment to exploring the complexities of women's lives.
The launch of "À Contre-Plumes" coincides with the 5th edition of the Dakar Women's Book Fair, which takes place from October 22 to 24, 2026, at the Place de la Nation in Dakar. The book fair offers a platform for women writers to share their work with a wider audience and connect with readers. The event features author talks, workshops, and book signings.
The writing residency that led to "À Contre-Plumes" was a key component of the Dakar Women's Book Fair's efforts to support women writers. The residency provided a space for the writers to develop their work and receive feedback from their peers. The resulting collection is a testament to the power of collaboration and community in fostering creative growth.
The publication of "À Contre-Plumes" marks an important milestone in the development of women's literature in Senegal. The collection offers a fresh perspective on women's experiences and contributes to the growing body of work by women writers in the country. As the literary scene in Senegal continues to evolve, "À Contre-Plumes" is a significant addition to the country's literary landscape.
Key points
- The collection features stories that explore themes of identity, imagination, and everyday life.
- The book is the result of a writing residency held at the French Institute in Dakar in April 2026.
- The collection is part of a larger effort to promote women's voices in literature.
