Devil on the Cross

Potent with an extreme message!!!

At first, i did not utterly comprehend the point of the the novel. However, it is later I understood the author's objective. I truly recommend this novel for anyone seeking the reason why there are disastrous problems in post-colonial Kenya as well as the rest of Africa.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Good Bet!

An astute criticism of modern Kenya. Whlile the primarily focus is the satirical identification of corruption, insightful (clever) recognition of numerous problems in the post-colonialperiod are incorporated. While Ngugi¿s opinions seem to be offered [indirectly], comprehensive dialogues provide different perspectives. He offers persuasive debate concerning western prototypes deteriorating African culture (language/self image), predicaments of women, detrimental effects of colonial and neo-colonial oppression and exploitation, media perversion, etc. Recent portrayals of `Mau Mau¿ as a movement for nationalistic unity and defense against a tyrannical ruling minority, rather than as a terrorist movement, are long overdue. A fine political and social parody that retains the intensity of genuine issues. Ngugi¿s African perspective is refreshing and attachs credibility to problems historically ignored or misrepresented. The novel engages readers by invoking critical thinking. Pay attention to the small things, while enjoying witty sarcasm and candor. I loved it.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Very moving

This book went in to the very core of the unexplored. He dicusses matters which are off-limits and produced an intensenovel

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

the kenya of today

Devil on the Cross by Ngugi wa Thiong¿o gives the reader a vivid idea of the country of Kenya and the way in which its¿ people live. Reading this book gives you a good understanding of what Kenya is going through currently and what the average life of a Kenyan would be in the Kenya of today. While I was reading the book I sometimes found it hard to read because of what the book says about the corruption that goes on in Kenya. The story takes place in Nairobi, the capitol of the country. Wariinga is the main character of the book. As the story takes you through her life, describing all that she has had to deal with and go through throughout her life, you will get an understanding of the life of a Kenyan. Wariinga grows up in the small town of Ilmorog and does her best to study hard at school. Later in Nairobi when she is grown up she is trying to make a living on her own. However, she is fired from her job and kicked out of her apartment. She then finds herself going back to Ilmorog. There she gets mixed up in the politics of corrupt businessmen. This book is a great description of the life and culture of Kenyans today. The author of the book is a man who has been beaten up and terrorized for what he has to say about his country. However, one should keep in mind that the book was written from one man¿s perspective and point of view, and that he is coming from a culture full of mysticism and witchcraft. It is easier to read the book if you have an understanding of the culture and language in Kenya before you begin. If you are looking for a good book to read that is not your average novel and which will tell you about the culture of an amazing country, you should read this book.