How to Be a Kenyan

by Wahome Mutahi

Peter Enahoro wrote a famously funny book, The Complete Nigerian, and the follow-up How to be a Nigerian. In similar mode, a Kenyan writer has produced a series of hilarious essays about what it means to be a Kenyan. Described as painfully true and outrageously witty, the book is a light-hearted illustration of the particularities of thought, manners and attitude of Kenyan people.

Genres: Africa, Kenya, Nonfiction

108 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Wahome Mutahi was one of the most beloved humourists of Kenya. He was popularly known as Whispers after the name of the column he wrote for The Daily Nation from 1982 to 2003, offering a satirical view of the trials and tribulations of Kenyan life.
-Wikipedia

Reviews

[Jacinta · Rating 5 out of 5]

funny and true, being a Kenyan i identify with most if not all of the illustrations of how to be a true Kenyan

[Moses Kilolo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Basically explanations of popular trends inherent in the Kenyan culture. Sad that most of the material is outdated as much has changed since the mid 90s, prompting a change of certain habits that Wahome describes. Its an hilarious read though, and would do well with readers who are starting out on reading, and interested in Kenyan stuff. However, despite the fact that Wahome is one of the most beloved writers out of Kenya, he did not do just to this work. had there been a solid story, maybe I would have liked it.

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

FANTASTIC.

[Lilian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though this book is outdated, the satire is on point. It is painfully true and would be a good introduction into Kenyan peculiarities. Will definitely look for more of the Late Wahome Mutai's work