Confessions of Nairobi Women

by Joan Thatiah

There is a story of a woman who confesses to nursing thoughts of wanting to kill her husband, another of a young woman whose whirlwind romance ends with her behind bars, and a soon-to-be bride who
wonders why she wants it all the darn time. Finally, an Instagram business owner admits there is more to her success than praying and hydrating.

Genres: African Literature, Kenya, Short Stories, Nairobi, Womens, Drama, Love

164 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Murugi Munyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an intriguing book! I was captivated from story 1 to 13. I kept stopping to gasp, laugh, think, feel. The stories were so varied that I didn’t know what to expect with each. Every one was long enough for me to feel so connected to each of the women and to fully get immersed in the storyline, yet short enough to truly offer the PUNCH that we all love in short stories! Can’t wait to dive into the second volume 😍

[Eugene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything about Nairobi and relationships has a "Wueh!!". This big bad city gives as much as it takes.

The stories are short and well written but leave you with a sigh of disbelief. The fact that the stories are so close to home makes one wonder what else didn't make it to the book. Joan does a good job to tell these women's stories.

A quick and interesting read.

[Norah Alba · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great and enlightening book. I enjoyed

[Khasai · Rating 3 out of 5]

(2.5 stars) it was an OK book. lacked some depth. i didn’t understand why the pronouns changed from person to person. a diverse group of women are represented and their stories take you places across nairobi, but the author’s personal voice in the narratives was too strong for me. i hoped to see the different women stand out from each other, but stories blended to each other. kudos for writing to a kenyan audience and centering these women but even this felt a little forced to me. i felt scandal was prioritized over reflection. also, there were some minor errors that should have been fixed in editing

[George Ciuri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny story that is worth reading

[Florence Njeri · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little bit underwhelming for me

[Wangari Murage · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must first say I am not a fan of short stories. However I must confess that this book was absolutely easy to read. The stories did not seem so disconnected despite them being independent. The titles were also very well done.

Before this, I didn't own a book signed by the author. Having a signed book in my hands was such a nice touch 😊. It read "Wangari, in the end we all become stories" . And indeed we do. Hope at my end, I will be a beautiful and inspiring story.

Anyway to end this blurb I will say:

1. This book is a shocking revelation of the kind of lives Nairobi Women are living. Straight out of a movie, each of these stories. This city is the ultimate School of Hard Knocks.

2. I highly recommend this book especially when one is going through a slump. If you are in Nairobi, I recommend you getting a signed copy from the author directly instead of a bookstore.

[KateM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved these stories! They were simply told and yet with so much depth, feeling and passion. No judgment, just a telling of one’s life and what has brought these women to where they are.
Some of the stories were very familiar,while others left me with a perturbed look on my face.

[Wambui · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The concise and direct nature of each confession made for a compelling read that I found quite gratifying. I think this book would serve as an excellent choice for anyone struggling with a reading slump (speaking from experience lol) offering an engaging escape that motivates you to set aside other tasks and only want to read.

I like how well Joan paints portraits of these women, their struggles laid bare. Yet, as I journeyed through their lives, my curiosity about their stories was often piqued. I longed to understand the paths that led them to their present, the unseen forces that shaped their choices. I had so many questions that were left unanswered and took this as an invitation to engage with the stories beyond the confines of the pages, become a co-creator and imagine their unseen depths.

As my first encounter into Kenyan literature ‘Confessions of Nairobi Women’ has sparked a desire to explore more. I look forward to delving into more of Thatiah’s works, eager to explore the diverse narratives she has to offer.

[Eelyan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I first read confessions of Nairobi men and it was quite eye opening into the lives and pains and joys of the men that walk this city.
I think I came in which high expectations for this one as well and it wasn't as I hoped as I felt the emotional depth and character development was missing.
It would also be nice to have confessions of women who are not in pain or bad marriages or have suffered in life.

[Yvonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, the diversity of the stories here, simply written, with flowing prose. I felt like I was seated next to most of the women listening to their stories. Some were realistic and others just mind boggling, the lives of people out here. Common thread was that there was a man in each story.
Mmmh mmmh.

It’s a 4.5 stars for me.

[Evelyn Wambui · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book made me appreciate how there are as many stories as they are people. That people go through the most and many are those strong enough to brave the storms.
Good for a quick read.
The writing style though was a bit underwhelming for me.

[Kevin Isaac · Rating 3 out of 5]

Heard it all before! The confessions of Nairobi Women is indeed stories I have heard before. If you know and have real friends who are women in Nairobi.....you know. A quick read

[Zawadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had a hoot reading this.

[Wangeshi Maina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a read!!

[Maganda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one left me speechless 😭

[Marie Declercq · Rating 3 out of 5]

Leuk boekje, leest vlot. De verhalen zijn soms wel echt tragisch en ik ga daar niet zo goed op.

[Reader June Leah mwangi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s kind of unfortunate that I could relate to some of these stories and just realize how far we are from realizing women’s place in society but also appreciate how far we’ve also come and just hoping that we do better for the next generation

[Joyleen Cheronoh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Intriguing, relatable. Women are walking life stories indeed!

[Y_thera ❤️ Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I may be a little late to the party with this book, but it was definitely worth the read. Each story provided a unique perspective, from learning valuable lessons from other women to gasping at the shocking revelations they shared.

While walking this morning, I couldn't help but try to imagine about the stories behind every woman I saw. This book doesn't just offer knowledge but also enhances emotional intelligence.

Some stories were triggering for me. Having been conned before, it was surprising to read about friends orchestrating cons against someone they perceive as wealthy. Despite these moments, it was a captivating read. Initially, it gave me a calming effect, similar to the feeling you get when you drink tea. Later, it became so intense for me it was almost headache-inducing.

Overall, I'd rate it a 4.5 out of 5. I'm looking forward to reading the second part and "Confessions of Men". My friend once mentioned that short stories can be hit or miss, but every story in this collection was equally captivating. This book is a must-read and should be included in the syllabus for all Nairobians. I lost count of the number of Wueeehs i used while reading.

[Corrie Mwende · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a Nairobi woman living in this chaotic but beautiful of a mess that is my city, I'm intrigued!! I love reading books that bring me home when I'm at home. Where my mind doesn't have to wander so much to paint a picture of a city. Where as I read, I can smell, feel and relate to the places in the book. Confessions of Nairobi women did exactly that!!

How do I even describe these stories that read like a script off a movie? To imagine that these are not tales, but are realities of women who I could have met, maybe rubbed shoulders with, women who have been through it, fucked up their lives, loved hopelessly, lived helplessly and thrived in the mystic dynamics of a city where hustle is the game of the day- incomprehensible!

I loved the vulnerability, admired the courage, sympathised with histories, and wowed with restitution amid disarray of an unforgiving society. This is a book which reminds you that no matter what you are dealing with, someone else is having it rough. It's a book that unpacks how human we are- our mess, care, naivety and greed.

From a woman who gets addicted to her man's love-making (she doesn't know his goods are laced with cocaine) to another who has to live under the globe roundabout and is literally raised by the streets, to one who loves wholly but is always under the mercy of his kicks and blows, and to the one who lives as a sex worker having witnessed her daughter's death in the carelessness of matatu madness, and finally one who ends up in jail because in the spur of a jealous moment does bodily harm to another woman and her story ends with incarceration.

You have to read this to get it! I read the book in one sitting! That's how good it was! Thanks Joan for writing the book- and to the women in it, wow!! I wish I had your courage.

[Sheila Mbadi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought my own life had its dramas, but this book opened my eyes to the incredibly vivid and challenging experiences of women in Nairobi. It felt like watching a powerful movie, yet it's startling to realize these stories are rooted in reality. My heart goes out to these women, and I wish I could send them all a hug of solidarity.

The book stands out for its ease of reading and the depth of its characters. Each story, while unique, ties back to the central theme of unveiling the hidden lives of these women. The narratives are rich and varied, providing a broad spectrum of experiences that are both enlightening and, at times, heart-wrenching. However, I believe it's important to note that the book addresses some deeply triggering themes, including rape, domestic violence, and the death of a child. A trigger warning for these sensitive topics would have been beneficial for readers to emotionally prepare themselves.

I'm now more eager than ever to dive into the rest of the confession series. This book isn't just a read; it's an emotional journey into the lives of others, offering perspectives that are as diverse as they are profound. For those considering this powerful series, please be aware of the mentioned themes and approach with care if you find these subjects challenging.

[Shantelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was definitely a different read for me. I was really interested though cause I have never read any books by Kenyan authors or about Kenyan people. I really wanted to dive into that world especially being Kenyan myself. Anyway it’s a series of true short stories from Nairobi women. These stories range from absolutely scandalous and deeply tragic. It’s definitely something I dipped in and out of. This was because some stories were quite sad and graphic. I am not used to reading stories that don’t have happy endings. This was a much needed reality check and insight into the lives of some Nairobi women. Nairobi is not for the weak my friend! Especially if you’re a woman. I think it’s a must read for everyone though. This is because it is real life and you shouldn’t be ignorant to the struggles of these women. The scandalous ones made me audibly gasp at times. Those stories had me on my toes consistently. The author did an amazing job and I am so happy she gave these women a space to tell their stories. This was a really great read and I am looking forward to reading her other work especially The Confessions Of Nairobi Men!

[Mrs Mangoa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve never really been one for short stories but over the last two months, I’ve been reading some captivating books which have given me a different perspective and this was definitely one of them.

It’s definitely the Kenyan woman experience esp where you have issue after issue and trying to make end meets. I know it’s not just kenya but a struggle for women worldwide. It is a blessing from GOD to have a husband, a happy home and faithful home and a husband and wife who love each other. It is also GOD’s miracle and blessing to have children too and fertility struggles are real. But surrendering to GOD for HIS blessing eases the journey with HIS grace (Math 28:20, Ps 127:3, 2nd Corinth 12:9).

Definitely loved the book and looking forward to going through the rest of the series, cued book 1 on the men’s side 🤣🤣.

10/10 wound recommend, two stories stuck out most; both of which the choices made I don’t see how they could live with themselves after (all of them do but these two especially stood out).

[Winnie Rugutt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joanne Thatiah Confession of Nairobi Women is a collection of true stories from women she interviewed in Nairobi. Each story is deeply personal and raw, sharing the struggles of women who have endured painful experiences — from betrayal and mistreatment in relationships with men, to difficult and sometimes heartbreaking dynamics with their own mothers.

What I appreciated most about this book is the honesty. The women’s voices come through strongly, and the stories felt very real. Reading them was heart-wrenching at times, but also eye-opening. That said, I did struggle a bit with the writing style. There were moments when the grammar and flow made it harder to stay fully immersed in the stories.

Still, despite these weaknesses, I found Confession of Nairobi Women to be a moving read. The stories touched me, and I admire the courage it must have taken for these women to share their experiences so openly.

[Nduta Munga · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Confessions of Nairobi Women" is a deeply moving collection that captivated me from the first story to the thirteenth. Each narrative is packed with raw emotions; heartbreak, sadness, and pain and vividly portrays the realities of life in Nairobi. The stories showed me the importance of sharing untold stories, giving a voice to experiences that are often overlooked.

Chapter 6, in particular, made me so emotional, lingering in my mind long after I turned the page.

The variety in the stories kept me engaged and guessing, with each one long enough to draw me in and short enough to deliver a powerful punch.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking to reconnect with reading, especially if they've been in a slump. Its gripping stories will reignite your love for books and leave you eager to dive into the second volume!

[Mercy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt raw - almost too real at times. It’s the kind of read that makes you pause between stories just to breathe. The confessions hit hard because they don’t come wrapped in judgment or pity; they’re just women’s truths, laid bare. Each story felt like a window into survival — sometimes desperate, sometimes defiant — but always human.

It was shocking in how easily pain and resilience coexist in these pages. The women here carry scars that speak louder than their words; they do what they must to navigate a world that often measures their worth unfairly. Reading through, I found myself torn between heartbreak and admiration — heartbreak for what society demands of women, admiration for how fiercely they endure it.

This book reminded me that behind every whispered story or rumor in the city, there’s usually a deeper layer of pain, longing, and hope that no one takes time to see.

[Jennifer Kyumwa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished reading Confessions of Nairobi Women in just three days, but the stories will stay with me much longer. I lost count of how many times I paused to say “Weuh!” or fee “Pain!” while reading. The book reveals the deep, often hidden suffering women endure as they struggle to survive, provide for their families, and find dignity in difficult circumstances.
The writing is clear and engaging, making the book easy to read, even though the lived experiences shared are heartbreaking and heavy. These are real, raw stories of sacrifice, resilience, and survival. Confessions of Nairobi Women is painful, eye-opening, and necessary. A powerful read that leaves you reflecting long after the last page.

[Juliana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now, where to begin? I am currently reading this author as a sequel. I had just finished Confessions of Nairobi Men and in the same style as Joan delivered the previous book, so does she play out the Women's part. Each story is different but unfortunately, all end up with a twist that is not expected, and a sad one at that. Each woman's tale is relatable, none out of the thirteen chapters feels pulled out of someone's imagination. The book is written simply and directly and what keeps the book lingering in your mind is the fact that it is all happenings in someone's life. The book is an easy pick if you are looking for a quick book to get by. Off to book two.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the fact that it explores themes like resilience, love, and betrayal, among others. I felt lightly connected to the characters and was engaged throughout. The reason it did not get 5 stars is because I generally don't like short stories. I like engaging with characters deeper and getting lost in the plot.

It's a really good book because in as much as I felt disappointed because some stories were incomplete, it kept me engaged, and I could not put it down. I wanted more from it.The stories are all different yet relatable in a myriad of ways . It's evocative with a mix of humour in what I'd say are heavy themes. It's definitely a must-read. I'm starting book 2 soon.