The Perfect Nine

A dazzling, genre-defying novel in verse from the author Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, whose novels and memoirs have received glowing praise. In his first attempt at the epic form, Ngũgĩ tells the story of the founding of the Gĩkũyũ people of Kenya, from a strongly feminist perspective. A verse narrative, blending folklore, mythology, adventure, and allegory, The Perfect Nine chronicles the efforts the Gĩkũyũ founders make to find partners for their ten beautiful daughters—called “The Perfect Nine” —and the challenges they set for the 99 suitors who seek their hands in marriage. The epic has all the elements of adventure, with suspense, danger, humor, and sacrifice.

Author : Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o
Translated By : Mahmoud Radi