Collected Works of Nana Asma'u: Daughter of Usman 'dan Fodiyo (1793-1864)

by Nana Asma'u, Jean Boyd (Editor), Beverly Mack (Editor)

Nana Asma'u Bint Usman 'dan Fodio, a nineteenth-century Muslim scholar, lived in the region now known as northern Nigeria and was an eyewitness to battles of the largest of the West-African jihads of the era. The preparation and conduct of the jihad provide the topics for Nana Asma'u's poetry. Her work also includes treatises on history, law, mysticism, theology, and politics, and was heavily influenced by the Arabic poetic tradition. 
     This volume contains annotated translations of works by the 19th century intellectual giant, Nana Asma'u, including 54 poems and prose texts. Asma'u rallied public opinion behind a movement devoted to the revival of Islam in West Africa, and organized a public education system for women.

Genres: Islam, Poetry, Africa, Nonfiction

753 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 1997

About the author

Nana Asma'u (full name: Nana Asma’u bint Shehu Usman dan Fodiyo, Arabic: نانا أسماء بنت عثمان فودي‎; 1793–1864) was a princess, poet, teacher, and daughter of the founder of the Sokoto Caliphate, Usman dan Fodio. She remains a revered figure in northern Nigeria. Nana Asma'u is held up by some as an example of education and independence of women possible under Islam, and by others as a precursor to modern feminism in Africa.

(from Wikipedia)

Reviews

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Difficult to sort through the original texts, but a great resource nonetheless.

[Afshan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible collection. Valuable for anyone who is interested in spiritual women.