Standing beside a legend. Learning from a legacy.

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It was an incredible honor to share space with Margaret Busby, the UK’s first Black woman publisher and the visionary who first introduced my father’s novel, The Spook Who Sat by the Door, to UK readers through Allison & Busby in 1969.

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This moment took place during the UK Book Tour of The Spook Who Sat by the Door (2025), featuring a special screening of the newly restored film at Everyman Cinema London, and the 2024 republication of the book by Jacaranda Books.

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Long before “diversity” became an industry buzzword, Margaret was doing the real work—amplifying voices that disrupted the status quo and creating space for radical Black thought in publishing.

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Because of her vision and courage, The Spook Who Sat by the Door found not just an audience, but a global legacy. This photo holds more than a memory—it holds history and a copy of the original book printed over 50 years ago. 

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Thank you, Margaret, for believing in my father’s voice and for reminding us all that literature is a form of resistance. You're right—it’s all your fault! And thank you for your “stamp of approval” on N&N Books… more to come. Margaret has recently published a book, "New Daughters of Africa - An International Anthology." Check it out .

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With deep gratitude to Valerie Brandes and Niki Igbaroola at Jacaranda Books, and Yamikani Ali at EVERYMAN Cinema.