A review by blendedbydesignreads
Grain of Wheat Classic Edition, by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o
5.0
This was such an incredibly well written book on a topic that I was not familiar with. It gives such a well rounded view of the politics and the effects of British governance/rule in African cultures in the early to mid 20th century. It showcases a tone of survival and freedom, where values are as unique as the individuals fighting for them.
This story tells of a core group of people and how they are individually affected, even though they are connected as a whole. And when their lives once again intersect under a banner, or in this case, under the flag of independence, the tables of blame are turned, and the concept of deceit and trust are to be drafted up all over again.
The characters are alive, and well crafted. There is an immediate investment into their well being, and a deep empathy for choices made. I love when you can connect with a character and know that while their decisions might not be in line with your own personal core values, it is so well presented and with total consideration to the situation, you can at a bare minimum whisper 'I get it, I don't like it, but I get it.'
This book really makes you think about what your own actions would be when faced with protecting your freedom, the freedom of your family, the freedom of your community, and/or the freedom of your country. It makes me question, in what order do my allegiances lie, and what am I willing to sacrifice?
I also really love the voice it was written in; told in a way that I feel like I am sitting at the fireside of an elder, listening as they tell the story of their experiences, all those years ago. I feel connected, like the story is weaved in a way that feels like a family history is being passed down for me for protection.
This story tells of a core group of people and how they are individually affected, even though they are connected as a whole. And when their lives once again intersect under a banner, or in this case, under the flag of independence, the tables of blame are turned, and the concept of deceit and trust are to be drafted up all over again.
The characters are alive, and well crafted. There is an immediate investment into their well being, and a deep empathy for choices made. I love when you can connect with a character and know that while their decisions might not be in line with your own personal core values, it is so well presented and with total consideration to the situation, you can at a bare minimum whisper 'I get it, I don't like it, but I get it.'
This book really makes you think about what your own actions would be when faced with protecting your freedom, the freedom of your family, the freedom of your community, and/or the freedom of your country. It makes me question, in what order do my allegiances lie, and what am I willing to sacrifice?
I also really love the voice it was written in; told in a way that I feel like I am sitting at the fireside of an elder, listening as they tell the story of their experiences, all those years ago. I feel connected, like the story is weaved in a way that feels like a family history is being passed down for me for protection.