Ripples in the Pool

by Rebeka Njau

Book by Njau, Rebeka

Genres: Africa, African Literature

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

About the author

Rebeka Njau (born 1932) is a Kenyan educator, writer and textile artist.

She was born in Kanyariri in the Kiambu district, attended high school in Nairobi and studied education at Makerere University College in Uganda. She was a founder of Nairobi Girls Secondary School and served as headmistress from 1965 to 1966. Her one act play The Scar (1965), which condemns female genital mutilation, was first published in the journal Transition in 1963 and is considered to be the first play written by a Kenyan woman. Her play In the Round was performed in 1964 and was banned by the Ugandan government.

Her first novel Alone with the Fig Tree was rewritten as Ripples in the Pool (1975), which was awarded the East Africa Writing Committee Prize. Njau also writes under the name Marina Gashe.

(from Wikipedia)

Reviews

[Sal Kat Wright · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fascinating story of a woman who does not conform to the traditional world she lives in, and the story of her ultimate downfall. Is a desire for happiness and independence, equal to madness? Does one go mad because of something inside, or because of the way she is treated?
The plot is incredible, but the writing style is a bit disappointing.

[Sheeroh · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book's plot meandered all over the place, aimlessly knitting together the threads of the story then unravelling somewhere down the road and over and over again. I feel that the author was trying too hard to be authentic and African, but because of this she lost sight of the plot. The drama was too much; I know there are stories that are tragedies but this was too tragic that it became unbelievable. I expected more from a Kenyan story written by a Kenyan author.

[Tutankhamun18 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This set in post independence Kenya, this novel follows Selina, a prostitute who has earned alot of money from men who worship her and Gikere, a tired hospital assistant and their marriage. Upon marrying they return to Gikere’s village, where Gikere’s sister Gaciru becomes Selina’s only companion as Selina is branded a Witch by Gikere and the whole village. In parellel Gikere wants to open a hospital but struggles and Karunga, a young goat herd learns about the mystical pool near the village and eventually takes a shine to Gaciru.

This novel explores Selina’s descent into madness, after accusations of being a witch and her lesbian infatuation with Gaciru, while also exploring Gikere’s descent into violence and alcoholism as the traditional narratives from the village hit upon both young people from the town.

The novel depicts same sex sexuality in 1970s East Africa, contains a strong character arc for the main female character Selina and centers the mystical pool symbolising moral decay and the loss of tradition. Themes explored are female agency and its loss, violence against women, witchcraft, mental health and forbidden love in several forms.

I really enjoyed Selina’s character and the exploration of themes. At times it did feel like a few too many things were happening at once, leading to some confusion for the reader. I’d recommend just keep reading and the sometimes uneven plot will come together for an epic ending.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I chose this book as I’ve not read much African literature to date.
Written about 50 years ago, the story delves into the tragedy and spiritual disconnection in rural Africa.
It is an interesting read about rural society. However, I was slightly uncomfortable with the writing style and the complete tragedy that befalls everyone, with no exception and no offer of hope.

[Wamucii Kabue · Rating 2 out of 5]

I must admit - the style of writing was rather interesting. I couldn’t put the book down, yet 200+ pages later, I’m confused. Unsure of what I’ve just read and how I feel about it.

[Wim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprising novel on power relations between men and women, abuse and mental health. Beautiful but also painful read.

[Neville Tirimba Ogoti · Rating 1 out of 5]

Egetabu eke nkebwate amagoso y'oboriki, amang'ana tarikiri buna agwenerete ase Ekenyamorero. Tari ayio oka, abanto bare ime y'egetabu eke bagotumekwa buna ebioma giokooroki ogochaya n'ogotamanya. Igo ekororekana buna omoriki oyo agotoranderia ribaga riogototebi omogano.