Recently, it was reported that Nobel Prizewinning author Toni Morrison has passed away at the age of 88. Tributes from many artistes, writers and leaders quickly poured in for Morrison as soon as news broke of her death.

"Her writing was a beautiful, meaningful challenge to our conscience and our moral imagination. What a gift to breathe the same air as her, if only for a while," former US President Barack Obama — who awarded Morrison the Presidential Medal of Freedom — wrote on Twitter.

"What a life," wrote author Clint Smith on the woman whose books focused on African American people. "What a remarkable remarkable life. She not only changed the landscape of American writing, she changed the landscape of America."

"She wasn't just the queen of American letters," said bestselling author Ibram X Kendi. “She wrote America's letters. And whether we realize it or not, all Americans and all writers are indebted to Toni Morrison. Sleep well. We are eternally grateful for you. We are eternally grateful for America's letters.” Oprah Winfrey also posted a heartfelt message on social media, in honour of the beloved author.