BLOSSOMS OF THE SAVANNAH - ANALYSIS

Plot summary

The book revolves around the family of Ole Kaelo. Made of four members, the tight knit family
has to leave Nakuru for their ancestral home Nasila after Ole Kaelo is retrenched from his 22
year-job at Agribix Limited. Ole Kaelo, who has two daughters Taiyo and Resian, is married to
Mama Milanoi- a submissive unquestioning wife.

As the family relocates to the matrimonial home, Ole kaelo harbours delusions of grandeur in the
family agricultural business he hopes to start, while the daughters hold on to the hope that their
father would agree to take them to the university.

Oblivious to the girls and Mama Milanoi, Kaelo has literally sold his soul to the devil with the
name Oloisudori Loonkiya. Moreover, the girls, having lived in Nakuru for over 20 years, have
not undergone the cut- a mandatory custom among the people of Nasila. They are moving into
Nasila as intoiye nemangalana (Uncircumcised girls)

With the desire to be recognized as an elder by his peers, Kaelo has to bide to the will of the
people of Nasila. Firstly, he has to find a way to appease them by initiating her daughters- a
tricky situation given their radical stance against the archaic tradition. Secondly, he has to prove
he is a man of means.

Guided by the desire to be accepted into the community, Kaelo falls prey to the avaricious
Oloisuduri who willingly gives him a loan. Known for his cavalier ways of exploiting people
Oloisuduri asks to marry young Resian as payment for the loan he extended to Kaelo.
Olosuiduri’s only condition is that Resian should be circumcised.

However, given Resian rebellious behavior, the two men agree to stage a ‘kidnapping.’ They
couldn’t have been wrong, for Resian escapes and is rescued by Olarinkoi- a man who according
to his mother’s prophecy- was the intended husband of Resian. When Olarinkoi tries to force
himself to Resian she fights with him and she is left for the dead.

Throughout the book, characters take sides depending on their views about tradition. On his part,
Kaelo sees that he has given the best to his daughters by giving them to the wealthy Oloisuduri.
Given the muteness of Mama Milanoi, we can infer that she follows her husband’s lead without
question.

Addressing the issues of women in society, the author tries to put young Resian on the lead in the
struggle against chauvinism and what has been proscribed by certain societies as the ‘rightful
position of women.’ With the aid of Minik- a woman who has devoted her time to fight women
subjugation- the girls succeed in fighting for what they believe in. However, Taiyo barely makes
it after she is brutally circumcised and left for dead.

CHAPTER ANALYSIS

Chapter One

Retrenched from his 22-year employment at Agribix Ltd, Ole Kaelo decides to relocate to
Nasila- his hometown and start his own business. Having lived in the city their entire life, Ole
Kaelo’s daughters Taiyo and Resian find it impossible to forget their town life and forever
embrace the now inevitable village life. Resian having dreams to join university decides to use
her elder sister’s influence over dad to get permission to return to Nakuru and join Egerton
University. However, the sister is reeling from the hurt inflicted by the dad who for the first time
said no to her request.

Taiyo, a music lover had won a ticket to attend a music extravaganza at the Coast. Hoping to
exploit her father’s love, she asked confidently for permission but Ole Kaelo would hear none of
it. After the dad’s refusal, Taiyo feels the walls of optimism crumble and she is afraid to ask for
any more favours from a father who now takes the form of an Iron fisted dictator.

The three family members leave Nakuru, a town they had lived their entire life with mixed
feelings. One of the most lingering torment is the fact that, having lived in the city, Ole Kaelo
had turned his back to the cultural practices of his people. Now that he is going back, he is
tormented by the fact that the culture he had thrown into the murk, would come back to haunt
him.

Though the family is received warmly in Nasila, there are various issues that linger within the
façade of implacable celebration and happiness. For instance, Kaelo and his younger brother
Parsimei are reeling under the fear of power shift as Simiren’s had been the family’s
representative in the clan affairs and also the big question of the uncircumcised daughters.

Observations from Chapter One

 A shift from urban forward-thinking society to the rural culturally rich society still
buried in the archaic practice of female circumcision.
 Mixed expectations from Nasila as the family tries to come to terms with the urban-
rural migration.

Questions from Chapter one

 What are some of the cultural practices in your community that you consider archaic
but are still practised?
 How do you view your parents with regards to granting you your personal
freedoms?
 Though Resian and Taiyo are sisters, what differences do the two exhibit?
 what are some of the character traits of Mama Milanoi?

Themes from chapter one

1. Culture conflict

Culture is a way of the people, how they relate with each other and how they conduct
themselves. In this chapter, the family of Kaelo has adopted and blended well with modern urban
culture. Taiyo and Resian consider themselves as modern women who have a right to choose
what is good for them. however, as they move to Nasila, they are threatened by the culture of the
people of Nasila. Their constant fear is the female circumcision.

Mama Milanoi is excited by the fact her daughters may get the opportunity to marry descent men
from reputable families in Nasila. (pg8) Mama Milanoi harbours the misconception that urban
boys have loose morals and cannot make for good sons-in law.

This chapter establishes two distinct cultures, the urban culture which blends well with Taiyo
and resian and promotes girl child education and the traditional culture whose foundation is
FGM and male domination.
As the Kaelo’s retire to Nasila, they confronted with the brutal reality of the culture Kaelo once
described as “ archaic traditions which were better buried and forgotten.” Being monogamous
and with only two daughters, Kaelo had been likened to a mono-eyed giant who stood on legs of
straw.(pg13)

In the chapter the Maasai culture is explored. The cultural leadership starts with the family in
which the elder son becomes the official representative (pg11-12). Other cultural practices
include circumcision of boys, initiation of girls and intalengo-a sacred ritual.

 Conservatism

Though societal beliefs seem to evolve, there are certain virtues that linger in the people’s minds.
These cultural aspects are perceived to be good and should not be tempered with, some people
even go to the length to advocate for such norms and some even form the social fabric of society.
In chapter one, Mama Milanoi, though she has lived in Nakuru for two decades, she believes that
the boys of the town have not been brought up to be descent husbands (pg8).

Kaelo believes that conservative courses and career choices are more suitable than music
(pg2).

 Insecurity

Chapter one reveals Kaelo as a hardworking employee of Agribix ( pg9). Despite his industry,
Kaelo is forced into early retirement termed as retrenchment. Retrenchment was introduced in
Kenya in the 1990s as a factor of austerity measures to reduce expenditutre and bring about
economic development. This was the time when Kenya was reeling from huge external debt
from the World Bank and IMF. It seems, kaelo was a victim of such austerity measures. When he
loses his job, Kaelo decide to move into business so as to try and stay afloat with the harsh
economic times.

While travelling to Nasila, the family which had been shield by security of the town feels lonely
and exposed to marauders in the wilderness that stretches from Nakuru to Nasila (pg11)

Characters in Chapter One

Parsimei Ole Kaelo

Married to Jane Milanoi (Mama Milanoi), Ole Kaelo is the father of Taiyo and Resian.
Previously the commercial manager of Agribix Limited, Ole Kaelo is retrenched and decides to
move to his hometown and start a family business. Though he has two lovely daughters, Ole
Kaelo loves his first born Taiyo than he does the Resian. His hatred is intense that Resian
instinctively notices it.

Character traits

Hardworking/industrious/competitive

Through his industry, Kaelo had rose to the ranks of commercial manager at Agribix Ltd. Being
competitive, he only saw the achievements of others and not his.

Short tempered/obstinate/Domineering
Taiyo saw the directives given to the men who were loading the lorries and felt sympathy for
them (pg1). When his brother told him about what the elders were saying about his monogamy,
he called them megalomaniacs (pg13). Taiyo says that the father would ruin their day with his
sharp tongue (pg3).

Loving/hurtful/hostile

He loves his wife and first born daughter so much. Taiyo felt that she could ask him for anything
until he said no to her for the first time. In Mama Milanoi, he saw a precious gift (pg9).

Although he shows love and care, he has no love for his lastborn (pg10).

His sharp tongue makes Taiyo feel hurt when he denies her permission to go to Mombasa.

Mama Milanoi

She is the wife to Parsimei and the mother to Taiyo and Resian

Character traits

Religious– She prayed for safe journey before they left Nakuru. (pg 6)

Dependent/submissive– She fully relies on her husband. After her husband had been retrenched,
she was in utter shock but her husband’s stoicism made her optimistic

Optimistic– Once she was assured by her husband, she became more secure. (pg 7)

Beautiful/loving– Kaelo appreciates his wife beauty which has remained so for over 20 years.
(Pg9)

Taiyo

She is the first born of Kaelo and Mama Milanoi

Character traits

Lovable/Outgoing/Supportive/trusting- She trusts her father to make the right decision when she
asks for permission to attend a music extravaganza in Mombasa (pg2). She has a boyfriend in
Nakuru which speaks of her outgoing nature unlike her sister (pg9). Her sister looks upto her for
support especially when dealing with their father.

Optimistic- Taiyo thinks positively about their future and their move to Nasila in contrast, her
sister has wide ranging fears and reservations (pg 4).

Resian

Sullen/resentful/self-doubt (pg10)

Pessimist/sensitive (pg4)

Decisive/focused- She doesn’t care for her father’s success or business but for her dreams of
continuing with her education (pg4).
Simiren Ole Kaelo

He is the brother of Parsimei Ole Kaelo

Confident/courageous– he ably represented the Ole Kaelo family in the clan activities
throughout the period Parsimei was in Nakuru (pg11).

Accommodative/comfortable/submissive- he had acceptable his brother’s birthright as the first

born and always gave him the respect he needed(pg12).

Loyal/dependable- he willingly ran errands for his brother Parsimei without complaint (pg12).

Stylistic Devices

Description

Description is a broad stylistic device that may involve figurative language and also blunt faced
creation of mental images using descriptive adjective.

For example Taiyo’s boyfriend description on page 3, ‘… lanky dark-haired, blunt faced young
man whose big languid eyes….’ Creates a mental picture of Lenjirr however not criptic to make
us see him and recognize him.

Mama milanoi (pg9) ‘She wore her dark hair in braids that accentuated her wide eyes. Her
breasts were full and heavy, her waist slender….’ reveals why Parsimei fell for her.

Figurative language

Figurative language involves the use of words and phrases that have meaning outside the exact
meaning of the particular words used. In this case we look at the use of similes, metaphors,
personification, symbolism and hyperbole.

Similes

It is comparison imagery that uses like or as to show the similarities in things. For instance:

 “…now like a baby who must be born at the fullness of time, this had come to pass.
(pg7)” Refers to Kaelo’s loss of job as something as inevitable as giving birth.
 “….to haunt her like demented spirits of a past that…” pg8. Though a simile, it
ushers in the life the Kaelo’s were moving to after Nakuru . Mama Milanoi know
that, the ‘empty words’ of the villagers were now coming to pass and she dreaded
the future.
 “..likened him to a mono-eyed giant who stood on legs of straw.” (Pg 13)

Metaphor

The metaphor is more direct in comparison than a simile. However, it is more complex given that
one thing is referred to as the other. Examples include:

 “Melting pot that Nakuru had become.” Pg8

Personification
In personification, abstract ideas take up form and are given human qualities e.g.

 … mind roaming the distant past…

Omniscient narrator

This is more of a point-of-view an angle with which the narrator tells the events in the story. In
the Blossoms of the Savannah, the narrator gets into the minds of the characters and reveals to us
what they are thinking and their feelings towards others or certain things. Examples include; pg
8 reveals a lot about mama milanoi’s thoughts, pg9-10 explores the mind of Parsimei Ole Kaelo
and pg 12 navigates through the mind of Parsimei’s brother Simiren.

Use of vernacular

The book revolves around the Maasai tradition. The writer has extensively explored the Maa
language using words like Yeiyo-, Intoiye nemengalana, olmorijoi, Olkunchai, Papaai within the
chapter. The words domesticate the issues within the book to the Maasai as well as reveal more
about the maa culture especially the Female circumcision.

Dialogue

The two daughters of Kaelo engage in a dialogue (pg 2-5) in which the view of life of the two
girls is revealed. Taiyo is optimistic about life however her sister is a pessimist. The conversation
also reveal the easily trusting nature of Taiyo and the skeptical Resian. As they talk we learn
about their love for education and their need for their father’s approval to join university which
lies in the more confident Taiyo.

The dialogue develops the characters of the two girls and reveals who the father’s favorite is.

Chapter two

The family of Kaelo happily enjoy the morning breakfast at their uncle’s home. For the first
time, Kaelo’s daughters come face to face with a large family set up. From the outset, their
uncle’s family seems happy however, Resian observes that the happiness is a façade of serious
competition among the four wives of their uncle. On the other hand Taiyo disagrees with her
sister’s judgment.

Meanwhile, Parsimei visits his old friend and Mentor Supeyo. In their dialogue, Parsimei comes
to learn that the man to who his success depends, Oloisudori is a notorious criminal and corrupt
opportunistic individual who uses every opportunity to exploit all those indebted to him.

Parsimei daughters on the other hand, are confronted by a man who devalues them for being
Intoiye nemengalana. However, the gloom of the day is lessened when the family moves to their
new home.

Observations from chapter two

 The girls find the life in Nasila to be vibrant especially in the large homestead of
their uncle Simiren.
 Though warmly received by family, the girls realise that not everyone in Nasila is
happy with their condition.
 In the quest to satisfy his desire for success in Nasila, Parsimei makes a deal with
Oloisudori- a man known for his nefarious character allover Nasila.
Questions from chapter two

1. What are some of the challenges faced by business people when starting a business?
Do you think Kaelo was headed the right way in his business overtures?
2. Kaelo’s daughters are disgraced by a solitary assailant who considered them as
outcasts. What other cultural practice make people be treated as outcasts?

Themes from chapter two

1. Discrimination/gender inequality

Taiyo and Resian are accosted by a man who considers them as less women due to their
uncircumcised state.

 Favouritism/corruption

Kaelo is warned by his friend Supeyo against entering into any business deals with Oloisudori.
Meanwhile, we learn that Kaelo had already entered into a business deal that would earn him
millions. After Kaelo’s talk with Supeyo, we learn how being acquinted with influential people
could be of advantage in securing government contracts.

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Dialogue

Dialogue reveals the community life of Nasila people when Taiyo and Resian are woken up to
enjoy their breakfast. It also shows the happy atmosphere Taiyo and Resian are introduced to
which is however dampened by the assault the daughters face in the hands of the stranger they
encounter in their walk. Furthermore, it sheds light into the keen perception Resian has as she
reveals that hidden in the happiness of Simiren’s large family is deep scars of competition and
rivalry. Through the conversation of Old Supeyo and his young friend Kaelo, we learn a lot
about Kaelo’s pride and his sole mistake in trusting Oloisuduri.

1. Alliteration

“… whose fragrant foliage filled the air with their aromatic scent. Flights of birds flashed
between trees and the air…”(pg15) The repetition of /f/ sound creates the musical element that
defines the beautiful morning to which the daughters wake up.

1. Onomatopoeia

“Chicken clucked and scratched in the cool shade underneath.” (pg15) Portrays the busy early
mornings where everyone was engaged with the music of different chores performed.

1. Simile e.g. pg 22 “Like cattle that required to be dehorned….” Pg 26 “reputation

that would rival that of a randy he goat.” Pg27 “… was still hanging in the air like
the sword of democles.”
2. Metaphor e.g. pg26 “… a hyena in your homestead.”
3. Saying and Proverb “two women in one homestead were two potent pots of poison.”
4. Irony: (pg17) Taiyo and Resian have differing views about Simiren’s large family.
Resian observes that there exists a stiff competition among members of Simiren’s
homestead. Besides, the members may not be that happy. On the other hand, Taiyo
observes genuine happiness and tells her sister sometimes people in small families
 may not be that happy. This statement is so true since Resian has never known
happiness in her family because of her father. In fact, she is happier in Simiren’s
homestead than when at their home.

Chapter three

Parsimei Ole Kaelo takes his monogamous family to their new home up the hills of Nasila. The
mother and daughters are excited about the house and its lush compound. To them, it’s a dream
come true. However, Resian still harbours the dream of joining university. The girls also are
confronted by their uniqueness among a community of circumcised women.

Observation from chapter three

 Material possessions create temporary happiness in Kaelo’s family however hidden

within the happiness is the desire by the girls to continue with their education and
their fear for Nasila culture especially FGM.

Questions from chapter three

1. What do you consider as a comfortable life?

2. In the previous chapter, Resian observed that hidden within the happiness of
Simiren’s family and wives was heated rivalry. How does this compare with her
own household?

Themes from chapter three

1. Readjustment

After settling into their new home, the Kaelos have a tedious time trying to readjust to Nasila
customs and culture. Particularly disturbed is Resian who feels that leaving Nakuru messed up
with her university dreams.

In order to blend in the girls embrace those aspects of Nasila culture they felt they could live
with. However, for Taiyo life was easier than her sister Resian.

Styles

1. Simile pg29 “…like a halfwitted child…” pg30 “And like a magician, Ole kaelo
stood…”
2. Local dialect- to introduce aspects of Nasila culture.
3. Dialogue – speaks about the relationship between Taiyo and her sister Resian.

Chapter four

Kaelo officially organises a welcoming ceremony which largely turns out to be a successful fete.
During the ceremony, the girls are confronted by the same man who accosted them when they
were taking a stroll in Nasila. The party turns out to be a mixture of the good and the bad of
Nasila culture. The elders ingratiate Kaelo back into the community and ask him to fully
embrace the culture of his people.

Through song, dance and feasting, the girls meet the handsome Parmuat to the chagrin of the
elderly including Simiren who knew the young man as a relative for they share the same clan.
Observation from chapter four

 The homecoming ceremony turns out to be a paradox in itself for Kaelo caters for
every food eaten in the party.
 The elders condemn the work of the woman called the wasp and ask the daughters
of Kaelo not to listen to her and assimilate fully to the tribe. This is what the
daughters dreaded.
 The unity of Nasila people is revealed as everyone among kaelo’s clan help to make
the party a success.

Questions

1. Explain how the rigidity of parents and elders can impact on the wellbeing and
development of the youth.
2. Write an essay about the beauty of cultural dances in your community.

Themes

1. Cultural extremism

The elders of Nasila are reluctant to evolve with modernity. During the homecoming, the talk is
centred on opposing the advances of a woman known as the wasp. The wasp is reputed to be an
advocate against FGM. In his speech, Ole Musanka issues a curse to the wasp and those who
follow her.

 Homecoming

The family of Parsimei is reinitiated into the ways and culture of the people of Nasila. According
to Ole Musanka, Parsimei was like a strand of hair that had been blown away from its owner’s
head and now was back.

In order to be fully accepted into the clan, Parsimei was to accept the culture of Nasila and lose
the alien cultures he had adopted.

Styles

1. Stereotype/cliché

a stereotype is an assumption that all are alike especially in reference to a certain group. In
chapter four, Kaelo laughs a certain stereotypes the defined the various sects of his Ilmolelian
clan. (Pg37-38)

 Description pg41, pg 43 last paragraph, pg47 first paragraph,

 Simile pg 40 “…like the two chambers of his heart….” Pg43 “… like ducks upon
water.” Pg45 “… like a piece of ironsheet…” pg50 “… like the sound of waves…”
pg51 “… like a physically oppressive force.”
 Saying “… When a rat begins to smell, it returns to its mother’s home.” pg52
 Song pg42-43
 Dialogue pg48-49

Chapter five
The two daughters feel like they have trapped into a prison they cannot break. After the
homecoming ceremony, and with the words of Ole Musanka ringing in their heads, they are
desperate to live Nasila but they can’t. What they thought as mere talk about circumcision is now
becoming vivid in their mind and the fear for what Taiyo describes as archaic tradition is now
real.

Meanwhile, Kaelo declares that Mama Milanoi should prepare the daughters for their wifely
duties and that Parmuat, their ‘brother’ should teach them about the Maa culture. All these are in
preparation for their circumcision. Although Mama Milanoi is opposed to the practice, she does
not want to go against her husband and culture.

The girls are thereafter introduced to Kaelo’s enterprise in Nasila town. Taiyo is excited about
the uniqueness and beauty of the business, but her sister’s interests are elsewhere.

Observation in chapter five

Kaelo declares that the daughters should be prepared for marriage and Circumcision.

Questions from chapter five

1. Prepare a questionnaire you will use to collect information about Female

circumcision among the Maasai.
2. Ask your elders about some of the practices in your community which are now no
longer practiced.
3. Imagine that you are Mama Milanoi, your husband has just told you that your
daughters are to be prepared for circumcision. Write a dialogue convincing him not
to let your daughters undergo the rite.

Themes from chapter five

Informal education

Kaelo instructs Mama Milanoi to teach their daughters about the Nasilian culture. He also wants
the girls to be trained in the ways of the people by Parmuat; their brother.

Tradition

This covers Nasilian practices and their impacts. Tradtion begins with circumcision, its practices
and impacts. For instance, if a girl got pregnant without being circumcised, she had to be
circumcised at the time of giving birth and married of to the oldest man in the village (pg63).

Another aspect of tradition is welcoming guests whoever they were without asking questions
(pg67).

Code of Conduct

Mama Milanoi and Kaelo reprimand their daughter Resian for sitting inappropriately pg64. Also,
when welcoming guests, the people of Nasila did not ask what the guests business was unless he
told them (pg68.)

Fear
Kaelo’s daughters spend the night thinking of what was to become of them now that the eldest
man in Nasila had beseeched them to follow and obey the traditions of Nasila (pg58).

Styles and stylistic devices in chapter five

1. Omniscient narration (pg57-58) reveals to us taiyo’s fear of the knife and her plans
to evade it. (pg 62) Mama milanoi’s reservations against circumcision.
2. Dialogue (pg59-61)- explores the change in Kaelo to a full Nasilian and his
willingness to let the daughters be ingratiated fully into the tribe.
3. Personification (pg63) FGM is said to be “rearing its ugly head.” To show its
monstrosity.
4. Description (pg64) the sitting room (65) the arrangement of goods in the shop. (67)
Joseph Parmuat.
5. Simile (pg 60) “… like the legendary dilemma…” (pg 64) “… like an overfed
lizard…”
6. Rhetorical Questions (pg62)
7. Dilemma (pg60)

Chapter six

Kaelo gives instructions on the type of behavior expected of in his homestead to the daughters
and the two gentlemen in the house. Parmuat is instructed to induct the girls and he begins his
work in earnest. He tells the girls about the origin of the cut and the reasons behind it.
Furthermore, he promises to help the girls fight the cut and requests them to direct the blame of
its persistence on women and not men.

Themes

Authority

Parsimei Ole Kaelo reasserts his authority by dictating the rules of conductin his homestead. His
speech is eloquent and designed to evoke respect and admiration whilst instilling fear to the
young people.

The position of woman in society

When Yeiyo-botorr visits she commends the girls for hard work in the kitchen. Yeiyo-botorr and
Mama Milanoi concur that the girls will make good wives when they get married. Taiyo’s
excitement shows when she contributes to the conversation, however, Resian does not agree with
the women’s observation that hard work should not just be about pleasing the menfolk.

Resian’s resistance earns her a sharp reprimand from the older women. Yeiyo-botorr says
Resian’s condition is an Olkueny which can only be removed by the cut.

Resistance to the status quo

Resian opposes the traditional position of a woman in the society. Her outburst though
considered as irrational, speaks about women who believe in the achievement of their dreams
and not being held down by the cultural demands of the society.

Styles and stylistic Devices

 1. Description (pg75) reveals the dedication of the girls to help their mother which is
interpreted to mean they had been raised well.
2. Simile (pg75) “… like a leopard would while stealthly…”
3. Foreshadowing; the simile in pg75 is a premonition of Olarinkoi real intention of
coming to Kaelo’s homestead.
4. Oral Tradition (legend)-(83-87) Parmuat describes to the girls how circumcision
begun and who were responsible for it.

Chapter seven

Mama Milanoi subtly introduces the topic of FGM to her daughter Resian, however, before she
is able to explain further on the issue, she is rudely interrupted by Oluisudori who pays them a
visit. Resian welcomes Oluisudori into their home and she is surprised by his mannerism and
arrogance. While Resian is grappling with Oluisudori importance to her father, she notices the
fear and apprehension in her father’s eyes. When Taiyo, who had left earlier with her father,
returns, Resian can’t hold it in but tell her sister about the peculiar guest.

The girls are told by Parmuat about Oluisudori which raises more fear in them. However, Resian
was elated by the fact that her mother had asked her about FGM. When they returned to the
house after Oluisudori had left, they children were met by silennce and gloomy parents. They
couldn’t tell whatever was wrong.

Observation in Chapter Seven

1. Kaelo learns the hard way Oluisudori’s crafty ways of exploiting those in his debt.
2. Mama Milanoi begins to assimilate Resian to the FGM culture of the Maasai.

Questions from Chapter Seven

1. Why do you think Mama Milanoi introduced the topic of FGM to her daughter
Resian?
2. Do you think Parmuat’s evaluation of Oloisudori was right? Explain.

Themes

Female Circumcision

For the first time Mama Milanoi opens up a discussion on the subject she had been postponing.
She hopes to discuss it with Resian but is rudely interrupted by Oluisudori. The girls are excited
to know what opinion their mother holds on the issue.

Authority/power/Greed

Resian is disturbed to see her father humble before Oluisudori. It seems men of Means like
Oluisudori have the power to sway good tidings to struggling business people like Kaelo that is
why Kaelo showers praise to Oluisudori while introducing him to his wife.

Oluisudori looks at Resian Lustfully making her uncomfortable and overly embarrassed and
incensed by his lack of decorum.

Styles and stylistic devices

 1. Dialogue: Resian strikes a conversation with her mother about FGM and re-affirms
the legend Parmuat had told the girls about FGM. There is also a conversation
between the self-important Oluisudori and Resian. Parmuat, Resian and Taiyo also
talk about Oluisudori and how he is known in Nasila. Taiyo tries in vain to open a
conversation with her dad but fails after Oluisudori’s exit.
2. Description: (pg92) the image of Oluisudori

Chapter Eight

Parsimei Ole Kaelo and Mama Milanoi are disturbed by Oluisudori’s visit. Known for his crafty
means, Olusudori had asked Kaelo to allow him marry Resian. Kaelo feels cheated by fate and
has nothing to do. Although, he had hated his daughter Resian, he does not like the idea of giving
her to the man. Furthermore, the request for the girl to be circumcised before the official
marriage is a thorny issue to the family. However, they decide Resian will be circumcised in
matrimony.

Mama Milanoi delves into the cultural laws of the Maa people which could protect her daughter
but realises that most of them have ceased to exist. Though troubled, they decide not to tell the
girls the grave matter until when the time is right. The marriage ceremony is to occur in one
month.

Observations in chapter Eight

1. Mama Milanoi and Kaelo’s greed becomes apparent when they are willing to let
their child marry Oluisudori instead of losing their ‘hard-earned’ wealth.

Questions from chapter Eight

1. Would you have agreed to let your daughter go if you were in Ole Kaelo’s shoes?

Themes

Extortion

Oluisudori knowing Kaelo is heavily indebted to him uses the opportunity to ask for Resian’s
hand in marriage.(pg111)”Didn’t you tell your wife just now that there is nothing I should be
denied in your home?”

Tradition

Mama Milanoi reminisces about the days a man could not marry a daughter of his age mate and
the punishment meted on all men when one of them tried to seduce a young girl.

Superstition

In page 107, Kaelo takes us back to the cult called Ilmasonik- a fictional religious cult which was
believed to accept human sacrifices from members for material gain

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Simile (pg107) “… like ilmintilis being roasted in fire.”; (pg108) “… like toying
with live electrified wire.” (Pg109) “… like a stinking rotten carcass.” (Pg113) “…
like a woman in labour.” (pg115) “like a bushfire during a drought” Pg116 “as fast
 as their legs could carry them.” “like the waters of Nasila and all the rivers of Maa.”
Pg119 “like an animal that was unable to freeitself from a snare.” Pg121 “like
ominous black clouds.”
2. Metaphor (pg115) … it was a tsunami that did not discriminate.” (Pg117) “Nasila
had been there as far back as the people could remember……” The paragraph uses
the river as a metaphor of the Maa culture which now had been polluted by new
cultures, some good and others bad. (pg118) Resian …… was a hard nut to crack.”
In reference to Resian incorrigible stand. (pg119) “…the way a bull would do to
expel…” to show the helpless anger in Kaelo
3. Rhetorical questions: are widely used within the chapter to show the helpless
dilemma in which Mama Milanoi and Ole Kaelo had found themselves. (pg108,
109, 112,120)
4. Idioms; (Pg1110) “…chicken had come home to roost.” “… demanding his pound
of flesh.” (pg111) “…pulling my leg” “…apple of his eye.” (pg112) “… sacrificial
lamb.” (pg116) “…hell broke loose.”

Chapter nine

Joseph Parmuat is finding it difficult to deal with Taiyo’s overtures because he does not want to
taint his good name. In order to keep his time with Taiyo sane, he makes sure that Resian is with
them. Although Resian was not interested in music and dance as her sister, she loved so much to
learn about her own culture.

Therefore, Joseph made sure that he taught them about the culture just to make sure that Resian
participated. He taught them about the different types of love(pg 124-127) a discussion which
ended with circumcision.

The next, however, Taiyo visited Parmuat and confessed to him her undying love. Parmuat
admits to having fallen in love with her but after weighing the risks involved, plans to turn down
on their secret affair.

Observation from the chapter

1. There different kinds of relationships among the Maa people involving males and
females such as: –
2. Elangatare- love between young people that could end up in marriage
3. Patureishi- platonic love between young people that went on even after they had met
their prospective husbands and wives.
4. Taiyo’s love for Parmuat that could threaten their brother-sister arrangement
according to the Nasilian culture.

Questions from the chapter

1. Do you support the illicit love between Taiyo and Parmuat?

2. Do you think a boy and a girl can be in a long term platonic relationship in the
modern day society? Explain your answer.

Themes from the chapter

1. Love
The brewing affection between Taiyo has reached its explosion and the girl decides she cannot
hide it anymore. The boy on the other hand has reservations about its implications.

The girls learn about the two kinds of relationships that existed among young people of the
opposite sex i.e. Elangatare- love between young people that could end up in marriage and
Patureishi- platonic love between young people that went on even after they had met their
prospective husbands and wives.

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Description: (pg123) the desire building up between Parmuat and Taiyo is captured
well in the first paragraph of the page. Also (pg133)
2. Personification: (pg129) “The only thing that stood between them was archaic
Nasila culture. Culture is abstract idea not a physical thing. Also (pg 134)
3. Saying: (pg129) “Why go fishing in shallow waters while the blue sea is teeming
with fish?”
4. Simile (pg136) “….like a deserted heart.” “….. like fish that had just jumped out of
water…”
5. Flashback: the day Taiyo saw Parmuat for the first time. (pg135)
6. Idioms: (pg128)“… dustbin of history…” (pg135) “….seventh heaven…”

Chapter ten

The day of Resian’s marriage is fast approaching and Ole Kaelo and wife have never found a
way of revealing it to their daughter. However, Resian’s sensitivity tells her that everything is
not well and that she and her family are not safe.

In order to save their family, Kaelo and wife plan to talk to the people who can help. Kaelo visits
his friend Supeyo to ask for financial help and the wife pays a visit to her in laws- the wives of
Parsimei.

Meanwhile, the girls are told to take their lunch at the family shop. On their way back, they are
almost raped by two assailant but to their luck, there are saved by Olarinkoi.

Observations from the chapter

 Ole Kaelo attempts to safeguard his new financial status and at the same time save
his daughters from Oluisudori’s clutches.
 The girls realise that they are not safe from the venomous male dominant Nasila.

Questions from the chapter

1. Imagine you are Taiyo, write a Thank you later to Olarinkoi for saving you from the
assailants.
2. What do you think made Resian to be in apprehensive mood?
3. Look at the superstition on page 138, does your community share similar stories?
Share with a friend.

Themes from the chapter

1. Superstition
Though she does not believe in superstition, Resian is disturbed by a bird called olmutut which
cooed in their homestead. According to her, it was a harbinger of bad things to come.

 Indecision

Kaelo and his wife have reached a point of indecision on the matters pertaining to their
children’s welfare and their family’s social class.

 Insecurity

Resian feels that she is not safe in their home that is why before she goes to bed she double-
checks all the doors and windows to make sure they are all locked. However, she still feels like
she is being observed.

On their way from the shops the girls are accosted by assailants and nearly raped.

 Patriarchy

Taiyo and Resian burn with fury over what they thought as a tyrannical Nasila society where
men thought that they had power over women. This is instigated by the near rape incident.

Styles and stylistic devices from the chapter

1. Idiom: (Pg138) “… buried his head in the sand…”

2. Simile: (pg138) “…. Like the proverbial ostrich…” (Pg141) “….like a ghost.”
3. Description: (pg141) Vivid description of the adrenaline charged Olarinkoi as he
defended the girls from their assailants.

Chapter Eleven

The girls wait for their parents to come with a burning desire to tell them of the events of the
day. Their wait does not bear fruits since their parents arrive tired and occupied with their own
tribulations. The following morning however, the girls blurt out sending their father into mad
fury.

Mama Milanoi asks the girls to go and live with Simiren’s family. To their great delight, the girls
stay at their uncles are days filled with laughter and lessons about their tradtion. The girls come
to see the other side of their culture and the reluctance of Nasila families in sending their
children to school.

Observation in the chapter

 The girls come to appreciate Nasila culture and its isolation from the ongoing
cultural pollution brought by western education.
 The girls learn more about Emakererei and she ultimately win their hearts and
becomes their heroine.

Questions from chapter

1. Compare the life at Parsimei’s home and at Simireni’s home. Where would you like
to live? Do you support polygamy?
2. Using Parsimei and Simiren’s family discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
polygamy.
Themes from the chapter

1. Trauma

Kaelo’s daughters are traumatized by the whole near rape experience. They try to look for
comfort from their parents but the parents are too pre-occupied nursing their own pain.
Nevertheless, they receive love and concern from Simiren’s family and their trauma is lessened.

 Impact of modernity/Education

Resian observes that the people of Nasila were skeptical about the impact of western education.
Although modern education was now inevitable, it still made those who underwent it to leave
their villages for greener pastures in the towns and cities. Furthermore, this education brought in
like-minded people who were now threatening the Nasilian culture. At this point in time, it was
the Nasilian culture that was struggling to stay afloat.

 The role of Mentors

When the girls moved to Simiren’s homestead, they found the life their easy and very social.
Also, they found out that they could find someone they could easily talk with on matters
pertaining to another without judgment. That person was their yeiyo-kiti. Furthermore, they
talked more about their idol Emakarerei, whom they learned a lot about from yeiyo-kiti! They
looked forward to working with people like emakererei to end female circumcision.

 Informal education (Ol kuak)

In order to understand the Nasilian culture, the girls find out that it is passed on from one person
to the other through the word of mouth. From the old granny Kokoo-o-sein, children learn a lot
about their identity and from parents, Aunts and uncles too.

Cultural education was also found in the activities performed and the inequality shown to all
children regardless of the age. Unlike in Parsimei’s house where Resian and Taiyo held different
positions, in Simiren’s house all were treated equally. Respect for the elders was also promoted.

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Metaphor: (pg144)“… teeming with wolves, hyenas and crazy vagabonds.”

2. Simile: (pg145)“… like the proverbial greedy hyena…” (pg146) “… like a dark
cloud…”
3. Idiom: (pg147) “… nipped in the bud….”
4. Song: (pg154)

Chapter twelve

Ole Kaelo gathers up men to hunt for vagabonds who had nearly raped his girls. The hunt led by
Kaelo and Parmuat is successful. But when the men are found, they seek refuge in the legs of
elderly males and seek for penance. Kaelo finds out that the one of the men is a close relative.

Though their lives are spared, the men’s families are to pay for the atrocity committed to Kaelo
and his family. When the girls heard of the elders’ verdict they were incensed. However, Mama
Milanoi reasons with them until normalcy is returned.
Meanwhile, Kaelo continued to procrastinate as the clock of her daughter’s impending marriage
ticked. The girls on the other hand, had learned a great deal from their stay at the family of
Simiren and were now proactive members of the society.

Observations from the Chapter

 Nasila cultural conflict resolution is to avoid bloodshed if the offending party shows
remorse or encourage communal bloodshed even if the offending party was an
individual.
 The girls believe the appropriate punishment for the vagabonds was a lifetime in
jail- a sharp contradiction to a sense of normalcy that had been forged by the giving
of a token of remorse.

Questions from the chapter

1. Do you support the conflict resolution model used by Elders in the matters of the
girls verses the two men? Explain?

Themes from the chapter

1. Conflict resolution

The men are ready for war, however, when reason reasserts itself, they choose to amicably
resolve the issues. The two boys who attempted to rape the girls are to atone for their
transgressions with five heifers. Although, the conflict resolution was done amicably, the
aggrieved parties, especially the girls were not involved in the matter. Whatever their feelings
were, they were considered irrelevant in the situation hence Resian’s reaction when she heard the
elders’ verdict.

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Simile: (pg156) “ …. Mad like a buffalo that had been infected…” (pg156) “…
groaned loudly like one in pain…” (pg157) “… like the oluorrur tree under a
turbulent gale.” (pg163-4) “Like chicks that tucked their heads….”
2. Idioms: (pg158) “…the die was cast.” (pg159) “whipping boys.” (pg166)“….hit the
roof with indination.”(pg167) “… stem the tide…” (pg168) “… lull before a
turbulent storm.”
3. Alliteration (pg157) “striding swiftly…. Deep sorrowful sound sent panic-stricken
children streaming….”
4. Description: (pg160-161) The scene of the approaching men, birds flying creates
mental pictures of the rising plain and builds up to what is about to happen.

Chapter Thirteen

Oloisudori Loonkiya officially comes to pay his dowry for Resian. He specifically ask for Resian
to be the one to serve them. Resian is reluctant, however, after so much persuasion, she
concedes. The girls impress the guests to the pride of their parents.

Oloisudori brings expensive gifts for Kaelo’s family. Mother and father are very happy but the
girls have their own reservations.
After entertaining the guests, Ole Kaelo tries to speak to his daughter Resian about her
impending nuptials but is rudely interrupted when the daughter mentions going to university.

Observation from the Chapter

-Ole Kaelo handles the marriage matter discreetly, away from his overly suspicious daughter
Resian.

– Although marriage affects the woman a lot, men completely lock them out of the undertakings
that lead to the union.

Questions from the chapter

1. Do you think it was okay for the parents to organise Resian’s marriage behind her
back?
2. What do you think are the traditional roles of a woman as observed in this chapter
and anywhere else in the book? Explain.

Themes from the chapter

1. Entertaining Guests

Kaelo’s family prepares to receive the prospective groom. They give into Oloisudori’s demands
that Resian should be the one to serve them. Oblivious to Resian, it was a parade for Oloisudori’s
friends to approve his choice of a wife.

In order to please her guests

 Affluence/Opulence

It is well established in the previous chapters that Oloisudori was a wealthy man. However, in
this chapter, the man’s lavish lifestyle is shown in the type of cars he comes with and the
company he keeps (pg177).

 Protection of the girl child

Nasila culture protected the girl child against the lustful eyes of male visitors like Oloisudori.
When the girls were at their uncle’s house, they hardly saw him (pg175)

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Metaphor: (pg170) “… the way a tortoise withdraws into his shell.” (pg174) “… a
newborn mongrel….” (pg176) Resian compared her father to a major Domo, “…
flick out like that of a chameleon.” (pg178) “… like a demon she thought….”
2. Simile: (pg171) “…. Like a monster….”
3. Description: of the entry of Oloisudori with his entourage

Chapter Fourteen

Ole Kaelo and Mama Milanoi visit Oloisudori and enjoy the glamour and beauty of the man’s
wealth. After the visit, Ole Kaelo believes that he has made the right decision for his daughter
despite the uncertainty in his heart. Another problem is that Resian won’t go that easy without a
fight. However, they plan to stage a kidnapping if Resian resists.
On the appointed day that Resian is to go with her husband, Oloisudori arrive in time with a
contingent including an anesthetist if the girl refuses.

Oloisudori informs Resian that she is now his wife. Resian runs away from home to confront her
father who confirms the betrothal. She is enraged by her father’s open betrayal. Her anger leads
to a shouting match in her father’s office.

After the bitter confrontation, Resian runs away and follows Olarinkoi.

Observation from the chapter

-Resian’s parents betray her trust in them by marrying her off to Oloisudori- a man she despised.

– disregard for human dignity is seen in the plans to kidnap Resian and fore her to be
Oloisudori’s wife.

Questions from the chapter

1. We currently live in the world of slay queens and sponsors. Basing your illustrations
from what you know about ‘sponsors’ do you think Resian’s reaction is justified?
2. Are parents allowed to make decisions regarding their daughters without consulting
them? explain

Themes from the chapter

Affluence/pomposity

Oloisudori takes Ole Kaelo and Mama milanoi on the guided tour of his vast estates. Both the
parents of Resian feel proud to be associated with a man of such status. In fact, kaelo harbours
delusions that his daughter Resian will be in capable hands. Both parents are carried by the
beauty and grandeur of the house Oloisudori had built for Resian (pg190).

Violation of individual rights

Kaelo and Mama Milanoi finalise the deal of their daughter’s marriage without even informing
her. They leave every to chance and when Oloisudori comes to pick her, Resian is stupefied by
his words (pg205).

Betrayal

When Resian learns that she had been married off to Oloisudori without her consent, she feels
utterly lost that her parents could actually pull such a thing without telling her(pg203). She cries
all the way to her father’s shop to confirm the outrageous betrothal (pg206). To her
consternation, she finds her father unfettered by the gravity of his act (pg207-9).

Patriarchy/Submission

Both Kaelo do not regard their contemptible marriage plans as invasion to individual liberties. In
fact Kaelo has the guts to declare that if his daughter refused to go with Oloisudori at will, they
should stage a kidnapping (pg191-2). Mama milanoi is a silent contributor to the plans, however
she does not raise her objection to any of them. she feels that everything is going wrong but she
cannot go against her for better for worse husband.
Styles and Stylistic Devices from the chapter

1. Simile: (pg185 ) Resian’s beauty is compared to that of a legendary beautiful Maa

woman, (pg 186) “She was also like the famous English lady….” (191) “.. like
morning fog.” (pg192) “… like an antelope…” “…like a spider did with a fly…”
(pg194) “like water that churned…” (pg208)” … like one hit by a bolt of
lightning.” (pg209) “… like one possessed with demented spirits.” (pg210) “…
cracked like a whip.”
2. Description: (pg186) first paragraph; (pg198) description of Resian’s dress.(pg201)
description of how Oloisudori looked at Resian.
3. Allusion: (pg186) the story of Lord Egerton lover. (pg194) mention of Goldenberg
and AngloLeasing-major corruption scandals in Kenya.
4. Song pg186
5. Idioms; (pg187) “… added feather to his cap.” (pg195) “… draw the rug from
beneath his feet,” (pg200) “.. to develop cold feet..”
6. Flashback (pg188) “ He reclined on his so far and let…”
7. Metaphor: (pg191) “… lead her to the honey pot…” (pg192) Resian was equated to
a goat’s kid that refused to suckle, (pg196) “…was a chattel to be secured by…”
(pg205) “Her eyes were twin rivulets…”
8. Hyperbole (pg203) happiest lady in the whole of East Africa.”

Chapter Fifteen

Resian takes Olarinkoi for his word and elopes with him. Being desperate to get away from her
parents and Oloisudori, she suffers silently behind the pick-up truck to her destination. Her hopes
are dashed when she realizes that Olarinkoi had kidnapped her for himself. He had no plans of
taking her to Emakererei.

Olarinkoi attempts to rape her but she gets the better of him. She, however, is left for the dead.
After her recovery, she wins the affection of the woman who nursed her.

Observation from the Chapter

 Olarinkoi tricks Resian into another matrimony.

 Resian proves to be wild and tenacious as she fights against Olarinkoi’s brutal
assault.
 Resian’s fighting spirit wins the admiration of the woman who nursed her back to
life.

Questions from the Chapter

1. Outline the activities that led to the near rape experience of Resian.
2. You are a counselor mandated to counsel Resian from her near rape experience,
write down the points you will consider in your advice.
3. Imagine Resian is narrating to you her ordeal with Olarinkoi. Write down five things
you will do to listen actively.

Themes from the chapter

1. Empathy/Kindness/Maternal Love
Resian is housed by a kindly woman who generously offers her a blanket for her long pick up
ride to Olarinkoi’s home. After the rape attempt on her, she meets a gorgeous woman who takes
care of her as only a mother would. Resian is touched by the woman’s kindness.

 Optimism/hope

When Resian started her journey in the morning, she was in high spirits. She braved the
mosquitoes and the unforgiving sun with high hopes of meeting her role model. For the first time
in her entire life, she was vivacious with little doubt until Olarinkoi attempted to rape her.

 Betrayal

Resian trusted Olarinkoi to save her from her father’s brutality and advances of Oloisudori only
for Olarinkoi to turn against her. Previously, Olarinkoi had earned her admiration and trust when
he saved Resian and Taiyo from the vagabonds who had tried to rape them.

Styles and stylistic devices

1. Description (pg214)(pg223) “She tried to lift her head…..” (pg226)”It was late
afternoon when…” (pg227) “Resian could not estimate her age….”
2. Simile: (pg215) like a sow that had been rolling….” (pg219) “And like a matchstick
that kindled….” (pg221) “…flesh like a ferocious animal..” “…fiercely like a
lioness.” (pg222) “…like a remote recollection of a distant past…” (pg223) “ like
the image of a charging elephant.” (pg228) “… growled like an irate bull…”
(pg230) “…like a proverbial pig…”
3. Idiom: (pg219) “from frying pan to the fire”, “a flicker of hope…” (pg228) “…with
a silver spoon.” “….some bitter bile rose… (pg233) “….dipping his dirty finger into
the porridge..” “…music to Resian’s ears!”
4. Metaphor: (pg219) “Was Olarinkoi a beast…” (pg227) “… resembled that of the
legendary enenaunerr…”
5. Alliteration: /f/- “float fleetingly …of fanciful…”
6. Dream: (pg220) Resian’s dream
7. Allusion: (pg230) Biblical allusion- Jobs story;(pg231) famous quote: “ What
pained one most was not the injustices carried out against one by one’s adversaries,
but the silence of those who called themselves his or her friends at the time the
injustice was being carried out.”
8. Saying: (pg231) “Although one had to know which side their bread was
buttered….”
9. Hyperbole: (pg231) “… sucked your veins dry…”

Chapter sixteen

Resian takes time to heal and regain her strength back. While she heals, her mother-in-law to be
the enkoiboni berates her with insults. Meanwhile, Olarinkoi pays her a visit to inform her about
her intended circumcision and their fleeing to Tanzania before Oloisudori and Kaelo should get
to them. On the other hand, the woman who had been taking care of her, the Enkabaani
(medicine woman and nurse) was struggling to secure Resian’s freedom from the forced
molestation and subsequent marriage. She succeeds in securing a means of transport in time for
Resian to escape Olarinkoi, his mother and subsequent rituals they had planned.
The journey to Minik ene Nkoitoi proves to be arduous and a reflective one for Resian. Resian is
delighted to meet Minik who instantly recognizes her. Apparently, Resian is one of the most
sought after girls with a bounty of half a million on her head!

Observations from the chapter

Resian’s commitment and passion to go places attracts the love and care of Entabaani, whose
role was to prepare her for circumcision. The entabaani shows a sincere dedication and sacrifices
a lot like Grusha did in The Caucasian Chalk circle ensure Resian got to her destination.

Questions from the Chapter

1. Imagine you are Resian, write a personal journal about your experiences on the way
to Minik ene Nkointoi’s Ranch.

Themes from the chapter

1. Poaching/ environmental destruction

The Enkoboini tells Resain of how Oloisudori killed elephants for their tusks- a thing that earned
him his wealth status (pg236. While traveling to Minik’s Ranch, Resian is disturbed by the
indiscriminate cutting of trees. She hopes the efforts of Wangari Maathai (her heroine) will bear
fruits and people we start valuing trees (pg250).

 Poverty/underdevelopment

Resian sees a lot of poverty in her surrounding beginning with Olarinkoi’s house, her neighbours
and the emaciated children with their young mothers (pg236-9).

 Early marriage

After gaining some energy, Resian ventures into the village and there she meets women younger
than her married to older men. What disturbed Resian was the young women; some around 15 or
16 had children with them (pg239).

Styles and Stylistic Devices

1. Simile: (pg236) “…stack ivory….like firewood.” “…Rhino horns… thrown into a

heap like tree stumps….” (pg243)“… like a physical force….” (pg245) “… like a
ferocious leopard…” “…like a snake…” (pg246) “…scooped her like a little
baby…” (pg249) “…like embarie the coward fox…” (pg252) “… as if from a
geyser.”
2. Allusion: (pg242) Biblical allusion- Jesus at the Garden of Gethsemane. (pg251)
“…find her nirvana..” (pg257) biblical allusion 1st Cor 12:13
3. Description: (pg243) “Then the moon emerged, its sad yellow….” (pg245-6) “She
woke up with a start…”
4. Personification: (pg243) moon is said to be sad.
5. Onomatopoeia: (pg243) howls of hyena, groaning of wild dogs, chirrup of crickets
and cicadas.
6. Dream: (pg244) about Resian’s fear of the cut.
7. Hyperbole: (pg247) “…. A trail of fire down her stomach..”
8. Idiom; (pg250) “…hit a wall.”
 9. Proverb: (pg257)“Home was never far for one who was still alive.”

Chapter seventeen

Resian is delighted to arrive at Ntaare Naju- Minik Ene Nkoitoi the Emakererei’s ranch. Minik
gladly welcomes her and offers her a job at the ranch. She also lets Nabaru stay because the poor
woman had nowhere else to go after Ilarinkoi’s threat. Minik is proud of Resian’s fighting spirit
and commends her for standing against Oloisudori and Olarinkoi.

Observation from Chapter

Resian is an embodiment of hope and faith and her strive to win against all odds finally lands her
in the capable hands of Minik.

Questions from the chapter

1. Do you think Minik was the wasp or a witch as the people of Nasila called her?
Explain.
2. Imagine you are Resian and have been invited to talk about the will to fight. Write
the speech you will give.

Themes from the Chapter

1. Empathy/ warmth

Minik welcomes Resian with open arms she does not give Resian to explain her situation. Like a
loving mother, she allows Resian to clean up eat before she could listen to her situation.
Furthermore, she offers Resian a job and allows Nabaru to stay.

 Struggle against patriarchy

Resian and Nabaru give an account of whatever happened in the hands of Olarinkoi and Resian’s
near death experience. This coupled with the struggle Minik is involved in reveals the dedication
of the women folk to stand against the decadent Nasila culture (pg262).

 Tradition

Minik points out that she is an ardent supporter of Maa traditions but she believes that culture is
dynamic and therefore it should shed negative aspects. She says, FGM like the culture of
adorning heavy copper wires by young brides called emuata should be done away with (pg263).

 Triumph

Resian feels triumphant after being welcomed by Minik. She had successfully outwitted two men
who wanted to marry her and also compel her into FGM (pg265).

Styles and Stylistic Devices

1. Hyperbole: (pg258) “…. Seas of tawny woolly animals flowing…”

2. Description: (pg258) The features of Resian are explored by Minik at length and
those of Minik. (pg260) description of Minik’s home. (pg266) the two bedroomed
house in which Resian was to live.
3. Simile: (pg259) “… aura like that of her principal in…”
 4. Metaphor: (pg267) Minik was called a wasp by the people of Nasila.

Chapter eighteen

Resian is doing well under the wing of her mentor Minik the Emakererei. However, before she
could settle in and know Minik well- a hard thing to do for Minik is very official when dealing
with people- a rescued girl is brought to the ranch. The girl turns to be Taiyo- Resian’s sister.

Apparently, Taiyo had been lured to an isolated by three women- with an assurance from her
mother that everything was well. According to what she was told, she was only going to
persuade her sister Resian to eat. Before she knew she had been duped, she was grabbed and
brutally circumcised and watched ove by Oloisudori goons. The goons killed Joseph Parmuat- a
man who had helped save Taiyo.

As Taiyo progressively heal, the girls , Nabaru and Minik try to find fault in the parents who
encouraged female circumcision and the community that encouraged it. The girls blamed their
parents and vowed to become better Maa parents as they advocated against the vice.

Observation from the Chapter

 Born a very clumsy and pessimistic child, Resian proves to be very hardworking and
a keen learner ready to take on the world. This is a contrast from a Resian we meet
at the beginning of the book. She is also very vibrant.
 The easily trusting and loving Taiyo is lured into FGM. It is here that we learn that
the girls’ mother was privy to all that was going on with the girls. She was in cohorts
with their father.

Questions from the Chapter

1. What do you think was the reason behind Resian change of perception in life?
2. According to you own opinion, were the girls’ parents at fault for choosing
Oloisudori for a husband for their daughters?

Themes from the chapter

1. Impacts of Female Genital Mutilation

After Taiyo’s mutilation she suffers extreme pain that leads to her temporary memory loss and
trauma. She had to undergo extensive conselling to come to terms with what she had gone
through.

Styles and Stylistic Devices

1. Simile: (pg268) “… homestead like a hawk.” (pg271) “..like men fleeing from a
burning village…”
2. Metaphor: (pg 269) “ bitter bile sizzled inside her and he acid burned her heart
searing it the way fire would sear dry bushes.” -to show how painful the situation
had made Minik. (pg271) “…shot past the range of their missiles.”

Chapter nineteen
Taiyo and Resian receive their letters of admission to Egerton University. While celebrating their
farewell party, the girls are confronted by Oloisudori and his goons. Oloisudori demands that he
should be given one of the girls since he had already paid double the bride price.

Minik cautions him but it is only after the threat of violence and burning of his cars that the man
and his goons left. The following day, the girls are driven to their new school.

Observations from the Chapter

 The girls finally get their admissions to the university of their dream. It was a sweet
victory given the struggle they had put to get here. Their defiance and assistance
from those who believed finally pays off.

Questions from the Chapter

1. Imagine you are Taiyo – A freshman/woman at Egerton university. Your class has
organised a trip to Nasila to talk to young people in schools about the importance of
not giving up in life. Write a speech titled ‘Your Dreams are Valid,’ based on Taiyo
life experiences in the book.

Themes from the Chapter

Triumph

The girls at Ntara Naaju celebrate their triumph against those aspects of culture considered
awkward. The celebration reach crescendo when Oulisuduri and his henchmen are clobbered and
chased away from the ranch.

Styles and Stylistic Devices

1. Song (pg281)
2. Dialogue: (pg282-3) there is a bitter exchange between Oloisudori and Minik.