Hangman

A Novel

An enthralling and original first novel about exile, diaspora, and the impossibility of Black refuge in America and beyond.

In the morning, I received a phone call and was told to board a flight. The arrangements had been made on my behalf. I packed no clothes, because my clothes had been packed for me. A car arrived to pick me up.

A man returns home to sub-Saharan Africa after twenty-six years in America. When he arrives, he finds that he doesn’t recognize the country or anyone in it. Thankfully, someone recognizes him, a man who calls him brother—setting him on a quest to find his real brother, who is dying.

In Hangman, Maya Binyam tells the story of that search, and of the phantoms, guides, tricksters, bureaucrats, debtors, taxi drivers, relatives, riddles, and strangers that will lead to the truth.

It is an uncommonly assured debut: an existential journey; a tragic farce; a slapstick tragedy; and a strange, and strangely honest, story of one man’s stubborn quest to find refuge—in this world and in the world that lies beyond it.

©2023 Maya Binyam (P)2023 OrangeSky Audio

A great read

A cross between Candide and Kafka. Thoroughly enjoyable. A promise of great books to come

Brilliant Journey!

I admired this book by this astute young writer. As a 55 year old man on an individual journey of my own, I marveled at Binyam’s ability to move through the world in his body. Embracing the protagonist’s vulnerability and wisdom, she captured the spirit of a man in flux. I’m inspired by this layered and artful reflection of a person between worlds. I’m so glad to have heard this reading by Ronnie Butler. His passion and understanding of the work was apparent. Overall, worthy of all praise! I can’t wait to hear the next book.