The Perfect Nine: The Epic of Gikuyu and Mumbi

LONGLISTED FOR THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL BOOKER PRIZE A dazzling genre-defying novel in verse full of trial and sacrifice The Perfect Nine is a glorious epic about the founding of Kenyas Gikuyu people and the ideals of beauty courage and unity. One of the greatest writers of our time Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Gikuyu and Mumbi settled on the peaceful and bounteous foot of Mount Kenya after fleeing war and hunger. When ninety-nine suitors arrive on their land seeking to marry their famously beautiful daughters called The Perfect Nine the parents ask their daughters to choose for themselves but to choose wisely. First the young women must embark on a treacherous quest with the suitors to find a magical cure for their youngest sister Warigia who cannot walk. As they journey up the mountain the number of suitors diminishes and the sisters put their sharp minds and bold hearts to the test conquering fear doubt hunger and many menacing ogres as they attempt to return home. But it is perhaps Warigias unexpected adventure that will be most challenging of all. Blending folklore mythology and allegory Ngugi wa Thiongo chronicles the adventures of Gikuyu and Mumbi and how their brave daughters became the matriarchs of the Gikuyu clans in stunning verse with all the epic elements of danger humour and suspense. A tremendous writer... its hard to doubt the power of the written word when you hear the story of Ngugi wa Thiongo Guardian