The story behind the author

Born in Dinguiraye, a remote region in Guinea, Saïdou Ly grew up in hardship and scarcity. He came from a humble family with limited means, but his heart was rich with ambition. As a teenager, he joined a local group called Système Negro, where creativity and solidarity gave him a sense of purpose. The group had promise, but over time, it strayed from its values. Rather than follow the crowd into darkness, Saïdou walked away — choosing silence over noise, and discipline over distraction.

This silence was not defeat — it was preparation. Despite having no electricity at night and barely enough to eat, he focused on school. He studied by candlelight, fueled only by his determination. After obtaining his high school diploma, Saïdou left Dinguiraye for the capital, Conakry — alone, with no family to rely on. There, he lived in humble conditions and worked hard to survive… while secretly crafting his first novel.

That novel is The Silence of the Just — a literary “bomb” born from real life, written in the shadows but destined for light. It is more than a story. It is the voice of a young African man who never gave up, and who turned pain into power.

About the Book

The Silence of the Just is a powerful and introspective novel that explores the moral struggles of a man trying to remain just in an unjust world. It gives voice to the silences we all carry, and paints a realistic portrait of injustice, courage, and resilience. Inspired by true events, this novel is both a mirror and a message for today's African youth.

Why You Should Read It

• Inspired by a true story and written with heart
• A strong message of dignity, hope, and determination
• Perfect for evening reading or as a meaningful gift
• Support an emerging voice in African literature