The Mau Mau rebellion, as it is often called, which began in Kenya in the early 1950s, was a nationalist, anticolonial armed resistance against the British colonial state.
The guerrilla movement called itself the Kenya Land Freedom Army; the British dubbed the movement “mau mau,” a meaningless name, to obscure the aims otherwise so clear in the resistance army’s name.
Ngugi Wa Thiongío’s Petals of Blood examines, among other things, the betrayal by the postcolonial regime of the ideals of this anticolonial struggle that helped Kenya achieve its independence.
The novel revolves around three men and a woman. The four friends reveal different aspects of their history to each other piecemeal, just as their families had guardedly explained the past to them. The lingering effects of the Mau Mau revolt have affected all their lives and by the end of the novel, each character is wrapped up in his or her own exclusive epiphany about life in Kenya.
Abdullah, the trader, thinks he failed the movement because he did not avenge the death of a friend who was a revolutionary and who was betrayed. Munira, the schoolteacher and eventual wide-eyed prophet, is paralyzed by the shadow of his successful father, who condemned the Mau Mau but aided the crony corruption of independent Kenya. Wanja, the beauty from a broken home, learns that it was two generations of revolutionary fervor that distorted the home she grew up in. And Karega, Thiongío’s union-pushing hero, scrutinizes the history of Mau Mau as if it were a sacred text. Somewhere in that history, they all believe, is the key to wisdom and justice.
Joan –
From the moment I started reading the book, I was hooked and couldn’t stop reading it (I’m not even into fiction). My emotions were all over while reading this book and I enjoyed every single story and how personal they felt. My favourite story was “And it was all Yellow” – 10/10 for sure. Wilson is one talented author and I look forward to reading his future books.
Lauryn Idda –
Call of the Abby’s is one of the most well written and enjoyable books I have ever read. Each story is a masterpiece in its self and you can definitely tell the author had a special emotional connection with all the characters. I’m definitely looking forward to the authors next book and I will definitely be recommending it to all my friends so they can all enjoy it as well.
BRANDY ONGWAE –
There’s so much that “Call of the Abyss and Other Stories” covers. The author has an intriguing style of writing that makes you empathize with the characters struggling with different social issues.
This is a book that I would recommend for anyone who appreciates books that are thought provoking.
Omondi Were –
What is to stop me from calling the author Israel with this display of his 12 children? I have had the privilege to read some of these stories severally before this book. In here is the Sondeka Awards 2020 (Short Stories category) winner.
If there’s a literary device that could bring trouble to authors, that would be suspense. What happened to nani? What is the efficiency of suspense if not that? In a way, the author of the book is Wilson + You.
My favourite story was Call of the Abyss. My choice is in no way affiliated with the relationship I have with the poem that headlines the story. I read it in one breath because of owls and souls. Just like this title is befitting, so are the others. I also appreciate the stories with a Mombasa setting because in a way I could relate: And it Was All Yellow, Shockwave on the Seaside, and, Fun and Games. From Mombasa to Nairobi, such tales of My Bitten Apple are told over and over again by our folks as warnings. Folk laws? If you are a detective, read Daddy’s Girls at your own risk. I haven’t heard of slaves of East Africa as I have of West Africa. That’s the reason Salim, Silver and the Smoking Stranger was giving West Africa. The Eyes Have It is definitely a paid partnership with whoever makes super glue. If Call of the Abyss is Benjamin, then this might just be Joseph. Ray of Sunshine reminds me of that time I was asked for my phone number and I unknowingly gave out my ID number. It also reminds me of that time I was asked for my ID number and gave out my school registration number unknowingly. Boerewors pronounced in English sounds like ‘Bowel Wars’. I read through Gastro Intestinal Adventure with that pronunciation in mind and my stomach turned a bit. When 2020 was going haywire, Him & Her and White Light stole me from reality kidogo.
Herein are tales of drug abuse, Afrofuturism, superstition, toxic relationships and, reckless youth. Story za jaba innit.
Natalie Tandala –
Call of the Abyss and other Stories is a collection of some of the most intriguing stories to be told. The book is a clear indication of the power there is in letting a reader picture their own various endings to various stories, as opposed to fixation upon just one ending possiblity. The reason as to why it would be termed as a must read piece is that the levels of creativity by the reader in crafting the characters to these short stories is something to be zoomed into. I personally recommend fellow passionate readers to delve into the book and realize the verity of this review.
Sheilah –
“Call of the Abyss and Other Stories” is an incredible collection. My favorite story, “Eyes Have It,” is a captivating tale that kept me on the edge of my seat. The author’s storytelling skills are top-notch, creating a vivid and immersive experience. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves thrilling and thought-provoking stories. It’s a must read! 😊
Teddy Panyako –
“Call of the Abyss & Other Stories,” is a collection of short mind-blowing fiction stories. This book touches a lot of themes which the author has vividly dug dipper to explain.” Call of the Abyss & Other Stories” is book for all it touches real world situations from addiction to drugs to toxic relationship, taking time back to the way of life in the 1800s then finally blending it with modern education “My Bitten Apple,” which is my best touching on the anxiety to own, Hunger for grades basically campus life.
I bigheartedly recommend readers to grab a copy to experience the feeling of reading one of the best books.
Robert Muriithi –
“Call of the Abyss & Other Stories” is a truly captivating and thought-provoking collection of short fiction that I wholeheartedly recommend to all readers. This book takes you on a mesmerizing journey through 12 intricately woven stories, each of which delves deep into the complexities of the human psyche.
What I found most remarkable about this collection is its incredible diversity of themes and subjects. From the dark and harrowing world of drug abuse to the enigmatic realm of superstition, from the historical backdrop of 1800s Africa to the imaginative landscapes of Afrofuturism, and from the tumultuous trials of toxic relationships to the impulsive recklessness of youth, this book covers an impressive range of human experiences.
The author’s ability to explore these diverse themes with such depth and authenticity is nothing short of remarkable. Each story feels like a journey into a different dimension of human existence, offering unique perspectives and insights that resonate long after you’ve finished reading.
“Call of the Abyss & Other Stories” is not just a collection of tales; it’s an invitation to escape reality and embark on an exploration of the human condition. Whether you’re seeking an escape from the mundane or a deep dive into the intricacies of our emotional landscape, this book has something to offer everyone.
The writing is evocative, the characters are vividly drawn, and the narratives are both engaging and thought-provoking. This is a book that challenges you to reflect on your own experiences and beliefs while immersing you in a rich tapestry of storytelling.