For our August pick, Zeda Book Club turned to a novel that holds a special place in many Kenyan millennial hearts: Kifo Kisimani by Kitheka Wa Mberia. For most of us, it was a set book in high school, a story that has lingered in our memories, its themes of love, loss, and societal pressures still resonant years later. Published in 2003, Mberia’s work captures the tensions of growing up in a changing Kenya, blending the personal and the political, the intimate and the communal, with a prose style that is accessible yet deeply affecting.
What immediately stood out about Kifo Kisimani was Mberia’s ability to explore heavy social issues like poverty, family conflict, and the struggles of young love, without ever losing the humanity of his characters. His narrative is empathetic and unflinching, painting a picture of life in Kenya that feels both specific and universal. The story remains relevant today, reminding us of the pressures and expectations placed on young people navigating identity, class, and ambition.
Beyond the nostalgia of reading it again, we had the chance to see the story come alive on stage. After our book club meeting, we attended the Hive Theatre production of Kifo Kisimani at Jhain Bhavan, and it was nothing short of incredible. The actors brought the characters to life with authenticity and energy, and the set design captured the essence of the novel’s world beautifully. Watching key scenes unfold before us added new layers of understanding and emotion, making the familiar story feel fresh and immediate.
As a cherry on top, we met Kitheka Wa Mberia after the performance and got our books signed, a moment that felt both celebratory and intimate, connecting the story we had read with the creative force behind it. Experiencing Kifo Kisimani on the page and on stage reminded us why literature and performance remain such powerful tools for empathy and reflection.
Verdict
Kifo Kisimani is a novel that rewards revisiting. Its characters, themes, and insights into Kenyan society remain poignant, while the theatrical adaptation highlights the timelessness and emotional depth of the story. For those who grew up with this book or are discovering it for the first time, it is a reminder of the enduring power of well-told stories.
At Zeda Book Club, revisiting Kifo Kisimani reminded us why we gather each month: to engage with stories that challenge us, move us, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and others. Zeda Book Club is open to women to join. We café hop and read a new book each month. We meet on the first Sunday of every month in Nairobi. Join the group here. Happy reading!
