Ayobami Adebayo

Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀ is a critically acclaimed Nigerian writer known for her novels, particularly *Stay With Me* (2017) and *A Spell of Good Things* (2023). She is recognized as one of the leading voices in contemporary African literature. **Early Life and Education** Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀ was born on January 29, 1988, in Lagos, Nigeria. She pursued her higher education in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Literature in English from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Adebayo further honed her craft by earning an M.A. in Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia (UK), where she was awarded an international bursary for creative writing. **Career and Notable Works** Adebayo's career rapidly gained international traction following the publication of her debut novel, *Stay with Me*, in 2017. The novel, which explores themes of love, marriage, and motherhood against the backdrop of Nigeria, was met with widespread critical praise. It was selected as a New York Times, Guardian, Chicago Tribune, and NPR Best Book of the Year. Her second major work, *A Spell of Good Things*, was published in 2023. **Major Achievements and Awards** *Stay with Me* received significant recognition, winning the 9mobile Prize for Literature (formerly the Etisalat Prize). It was also shortlisted for the Baileys Prize for Women's Fiction (now the Women's Prize for Fiction) and the Wellcome Book Prize. Additionally, the novel was longlisted for the International Dylan Thomas Prize and the International Dublin Literary Award. Adebayo is also a recipient of the Prix Les Afriques and The Future Awards Africa. **Current Status** Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀ continues to write and contribute to the literary community. She is married to Emmanuel Iduma, a writer and photographer. Her works are frequently featured in literary journals and publications, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in global literature.