A Grain of Wheat is a novel set in Kenya during the Mau Mau Uprising against British colonial rule. It explores the struggles of several characters as they navigate loyalty, betrayal, and the fight for independence. The story revolves around the lives of individuals in a small village who are deeply affected by the political upheaval and personal conflicts resulting from the colonial system and the ensuing rebellion.
Central to the narrative is the character of Mugo, who becomes a symbol of the moral complexities faced by individuals during the struggle for freedom. He grapples with his past decisions and the burdens of expectation from his fellow villagers. The novel examines themes of sacrifice, the costs of revolution, and the personal conflicts that arise in the quest for national identity.
The author, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, employs a rich and layered storytelling approach, intertwining the characters' personal stories with the broader historical context. This blend allows readers to engage with the emotional realities of the struggle, showcasing the intertwined fates of individuals and the political landscape. Ultimately, A Grain of Wheat challenges readers to reflect on the nature of freedom and the complexities of human relationships in times of turmoil.
More »
Today Birthdays
1786 -
Davy Crockett
1893 -
Mae West
1887 -
Marcus Garvey
1933 -
Gene Kranz
1932 -
V. S. Naipaul
1949 -
Julian Fellowes
1984 -
Raphael Bob-Waksberg
1882 -
Samuel Goldwyn
1939 -
Josh McDowell
1968 -
Helen McCrory
1890 -
Harry Hopkins
1941 -
Ibrahim Babangida
1952 -
Nelson Piquet
1966 -
Rodney Mullen
1944 -
Larry Ellison
1977 -
Thierry Henry
1985 -
Alex Honnold
1938 -
Abu Bakar Bashir
1940 -
David Price
1982 -
Mark Salling
1990 -
Rachel Hurd-Wood
1958 -
Belinda Carlisle
1905 -
John Hay Whitney