Meet Hephzibah Akinwale, Guinness record holder for longest novel written by a child

At just 10 years old, Hephzibah Akinwale captivated the literary world with her extraordinary storytelling talent.

Her debut novel, Chronicles of the Time Keepers: Whisked Away, set a new world record for the longest fiction novel written by a child in 2023.

Published on September 21, 2023, when Hephzibah Akinwale was only 10, the book boasts an impressive 58,000 words — surpassing the previous record of 44,000 words.

Hephzibah Akinwale: a prodigy’s early beginnings
Born on January 1, 2012, in Cambridge, England, Hephzibah discovered her passion for writing at just eight years old.

Encouraged by her mother, Chika Akinwale, she honed her creativity and storytelling skills. Growing up with two younger sisters who share her imaginative spirit, Hephzibah developed a unique ability to craft narratives that seamlessly blend fantasy and reality.

A storytelling sensation
Chronicles of the Time Keepers: Whisked Away has been widely praised for its compelling narrative and vivid imagination.

The novel follows a fictionalized version of Hephzibah navigating an enchanting world where dreams and reality intertwine.

Readers of all ages have been captivated by her ability to craft immersive storytelling experiences.

Featured in various media outlets, Hephzibah has emerged as an inspiring figure for young writers, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Her literary achievement is a testament to her creativity, perseverance, and talent.

Championing diversity in literature
Beyond her record-breaking novel, Hephzibah is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in literature.

She is leading a project titled No Approval Needed, a collection designed to empower young girls through illustrations of ethnic minority characters accompanied by motivational quotes.

This initiative underscores her commitment to ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds see themselves reflected in the books they read.

Impact and legacy
Hephzibah Akinwale’s story is more than a personal triumph—it is an inspiration to young people worldwide. Her journey proves that age is no obstacle to greatness. By shattering records and championing representation in literature, she is paving the way for the next generation of young authors.

Her work highlights the importance of diversity in storytelling, encouraging children from all backgrounds to dream big and share their own narratives.