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Chinua Achebe’s literary legacy

Chinua Achebe, left, Nelson Mandela in South Africa in 2002. Achebe was awarded an honorary degree of doctor of literature and delivered the third Steve Biko Memorial Lecture at the University of Cape Town.

Chinua Achebe, left, Nelson Mandela in South Africa in 2002. Achebe was awarded an honorary degree of doctor of literature and delivered the third Steve Biko Memorial Lecture at the University of Cape Town.   (Anna Zieminski / AFP Getty Images)

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Chinua Achebe has been called both the father and grandfather of African literature, a legacy that began with the publication of “Things Fall Apart” in 1958 and will continue beyond his death in March 2013. Here are some of the writers who have cited him as an influence.

Toni Morrison

Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison, a friend of Achebe’s, hosted a celebration in honor of the 50th anniversary of “Things Fall Apart” in New York.  (Michael Lionstar / Associated Press)

Edwidge Danticat

Author Edwidge Danticat was among those who joined in the 50th anniversary celebration of “Things Fall Apart.”  (Laurent Rebours / Associated Press)

Chris Abani

Nigerian-born author Chris Abani was inspired to write as a child when he found hand-copied passages from “Things Fall Apart” in his brother’s room.  (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)

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