In Conversation: Santilla Chingaipe Friday 16th October

We are delighted to welcome Santilla to Brighton for what will be a memorable event.

Friday 16th October at Afrori Books

Doors open 6.30pm

Join us for an incredible journey across the world and dive deep into the Commonwealth links to this forgotten history

Santilla’s Black Convicts, published by Jacaranda on 15 October, recovers the largely erased stories of Australia’s Black convicts and, in doing so, opens up a much wider conversation about empire, slavery, race and memory. At least 15 convicts on the First Fleet of 1788 were of African descent, with the number rising to almost 500 by 1840, yet many of these lives have effectively disappeared from the national story.

There is also a particularly fascinating Commonwealth and Caribbean dimension: Santilla draws connections between British, Caribbean and Australian colonial histories, while exploring archival research itself as a way of recovering histories that have been marginalised or erased.

"In Conversation" has grown into a remarkable event series at Afrori Books. Whether it’s a lively auditorium filled with hundreds or a cosy, intimate setting, these events offer a chance to engage with some of the brightest established and emerging authors and creatives from around the globe. These are one-of-a-kind opportunities to hear personal stories and experiences, shared with honesty and openness. At Afrori Books, we’re committed to providing a welcoming space for Black creatives to tell their stories in their own voices. We’d love for you to join the conversation. 

Why Attend?

Exclusive Insight: Gain a deeper understanding about the research and writing process that has bought the book together. 

Meet the Author: A unique chance to engage  with truely unique author and have your book signed.

Literary Excellence: Celebrate the best books of the year with fellow book enthusiasts. Our book community is a safe space to meet others.

Win: We will run a prize draw on the evening and you could win tickets to another Afrori event of your choice.