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The People of Ostrich Mountain
As the 1950s Mau Mau war breaks out in the foothills of Mt. Kenya, Wambũi, a fourteen-year-old girl leaves her besieged village to join a prestigious boarding school a half day’s journey away by train. There, she becomes aware of her extraordinary mathematical abilities discovered by her teacher, Eileen Atwood. Initially, Wambũi views Eileen’s attentions with suspicion and hostility, but over time, the two grow close and form a lifelong friendship. Unfortunately for Wambũi, the mid-twentieth century isn’t ready for a female math prodigy, particularly in Kenya. But she quietly and defiantly takes on the obstacles seeking to define her, applying her unusual gifts in new directions, which ultimately benefits her impoverished family and inspires her siblings and their children to pursue their own dreams. After forty years in Kenya, Eileen unexpectedly loses her employment authorization and is forced to return to England, where she struggles to adjust to living in a country she barely recognizes. Meanwhile, Wambũi’s son, Ray, a doctor, navigates a fraught visa application process and travels to America to begin residency training; however, his hospital becomes insolvent and shuts down a year later. He and his colleagues are assimilated into other programs where, as foreign-born physicians, they endure relentless prejudice. As a black man, he also discovers that the streets of Chicago are sometimes quick to judge, with serious consequences. A saga of family and friendship spanning five decades and three continents, 'The People of Ostrich Mountain' chronicles the interconnected lives of three outsiders as they navigate the vagaries of race, gender and immigration.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2020
61 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 12, 2022
The People of Ostrich Mountain is a historical fiction book that begins in the 1950s as the Mau Mau uprising breaks out in the foothills of Mt. Kenya. The story begins with a teenage girl named Wambui who has extraordinary math abilities and leaves her village during this emergency period to join a prestigious boarding school which is half a day's journey by train. It is at this school where she meets a British teacher named Eileen Atwood and the two of them develop a lifelong friendship. Rather than go to university, she chooses to return to her village in order to teach so she can help her family who are struggling financially. The book also navigates the story of Wambui's son Ray and his journey to become a physician as well as Eileen's struggle when she loses her employment and has to return to England after living in Kenya for 40 years.
I enjoy historical fiction and the information I learn while reading it. The author did a wonderful job incorporating Kenyan customs as well as the sociopolitical climate into the story, but what stood out for me was the character development, friendship, loyalty and the sense of responsibility with regards to taking care of family. The parts of the story that took place in Kenya was definitely my favorite. I especially enjoyed reading about Wambui's journey and her friendship with Eileen, and I wish a little more time had been spent on these elements.
As a nurse, I enjoyed reading about Ray's struggles and successes with medical school and residency, but the transition to his story felt rushed, and did not feel cohesive with the rest of the story, and I found myself wanting to get back to Wambui's chapters. The narration was well done but it took a few chapters to get used to the audio while learning the character's names just because I am not familiar with Kenyan names, but once I got used to the characters it was easy to keep the story straight. 3.5 stars rounded up because I really enjoyed it overall.
Now available on Kindle Unlimited.
I enjoy historical fiction and the information I learn while reading it. The author did a wonderful job incorporating Kenyan customs as well as the sociopolitical climate into the story, but what stood out for me was the character development, friendship, loyalty and the sense of responsibility with regards to taking care of family. The parts of the story that took place in Kenya was definitely my favorite. I especially enjoyed reading about Wambui's journey and her friendship with Eileen, and I wish a little more time had been spent on these elements.
As a nurse, I enjoyed reading about Ray's struggles and successes with medical school and residency, but the transition to his story felt rushed, and did not feel cohesive with the rest of the story, and I found myself wanting to get back to Wambui's chapters. The narration was well done but it took a few chapters to get used to the audio while learning the character's names just because I am not familiar with Kenyan names, but once I got used to the characters it was easy to keep the story straight. 3.5 stars rounded up because I really enjoyed it overall.
Now available on Kindle Unlimited.
January 6, 2023
The language is beautiful, and especially the description of Kenya, its people, and its culture is well done. The author highlights gender disparity, colonization, the ugly and beautiful side of the missionaries, racism, and the struggles of an immigrant in America. Familial ties, friendship, loyalties, and cultural aspects are woven beautifully into the narration.
Unfortunately, despite the beautiful and varied themes, this novel did not work quite well for me. It is unnecessarily lengthy and marred by abrupt transitions. The jump in timelines is huge and disjointed.
Though there are various subplots and backstories of many minor characters, they seem like just fillers and are not engaging enough. Till about 40% of the book, the story revolves around Wambũi, her village, atrocities of the police, the Mau Mau rebellion, etc. And suddenly, the story moves in a different direction and she is missing for a long time.
The story drags initially and suddenly picks up the pace when the focus shifts from Wambũi to Ray. But a large part of his life is not shared and we are unaware of the years between his early years and medical school.
The blurb is kind of misleading. It doesn’t give much detail about the British-Kenyan conflict or the Mau Mau rebellion.
Rating 2.4/5
Unfortunately, despite the beautiful and varied themes, this novel did not work quite well for me. It is unnecessarily lengthy and marred by abrupt transitions. The jump in timelines is huge and disjointed.
Though there are various subplots and backstories of many minor characters, they seem like just fillers and are not engaging enough. Till about 40% of the book, the story revolves around Wambũi, her village, atrocities of the police, the Mau Mau rebellion, etc. And suddenly, the story moves in a different direction and she is missing for a long time.
The story drags initially and suddenly picks up the pace when the focus shifts from Wambũi to Ray. But a large part of his life is not shared and we are unaware of the years between his early years and medical school.
The blurb is kind of misleading. It doesn’t give much detail about the British-Kenyan conflict or the Mau Mau rebellion.
Rating 2.4/5
January 3, 2023
3.5 stars
I have to confess to feeling a little disappointed with this novel. As I listened to audiobook I was also somewhat disappointed with the narrator being a male American. I would have thought that a more authentic voice (eg a Kenyan female) might have been more appropriate and sounded much better.
That said I did get used to the narrator after a while but the storyline wasn't what I was expecting. I was certainly anticipating more regarding the Mau Mau uprising, which was glossed over.
What we do have is an interesting book about a family led by the remarkable Wambui, a maths genius who has to give up on her dream due to her family falling on harder times (due to the uprising). Wambui makes the most of her opportunities however and we follow her through school, college, marriage and beyond.
There are some very interesting characters involved in the story, not least of which is the single-minded teacher who takes Wambui under her wing.
The novel itself explores such themes as prejudice, racism, family, ambition, love and belonging.
If you want a family saga with a twist then this book is for you. It certainly kept my interest despite the few niggles I've already mentioned. It is engaging, interesting and informative.
I have to confess to feeling a little disappointed with this novel. As I listened to audiobook I was also somewhat disappointed with the narrator being a male American. I would have thought that a more authentic voice (eg a Kenyan female) might have been more appropriate and sounded much better.
That said I did get used to the narrator after a while but the storyline wasn't what I was expecting. I was certainly anticipating more regarding the Mau Mau uprising, which was glossed over.
What we do have is an interesting book about a family led by the remarkable Wambui, a maths genius who has to give up on her dream due to her family falling on harder times (due to the uprising). Wambui makes the most of her opportunities however and we follow her through school, college, marriage and beyond.
There are some very interesting characters involved in the story, not least of which is the single-minded teacher who takes Wambui under her wing.
The novel itself explores such themes as prejudice, racism, family, ambition, love and belonging.
If you want a family saga with a twist then this book is for you. It certainly kept my interest despite the few niggles I've already mentioned. It is engaging, interesting and informative.
November 25, 2020
I wish I could give this book more than five stars. I loved this book so much! The writer did a great job of setting characters through time and place with the backdrop of different sociopolitical situations that are similar but different, but the characters and their stories is still the forefront, and ultimately just regular people trying to navigate these different situations.
Through story, the author looks at identity, language, immigration in different contexts, what is success, how luck plays a part in success, and so much more without ever falling into the trap of info-dumping or getting caught up in ideas rather than character and never neglects the story. There are also many different characters, but they are all fully developed, interesting, and feel so real. All the characters discussed from different backgrounds, genders, etc. are never reduced but always fleshed out.
He also avoids sentimentalism as well as overly grim or dark realities. Everything feels so real but is not boring, and plot is never sacrificed. I can't say enough good things about this book. I loved it so much!
Through story, the author looks at identity, language, immigration in different contexts, what is success, how luck plays a part in success, and so much more without ever falling into the trap of info-dumping or getting caught up in ideas rather than character and never neglects the story. There are also many different characters, but they are all fully developed, interesting, and feel so real. All the characters discussed from different backgrounds, genders, etc. are never reduced but always fleshed out.
He also avoids sentimentalism as well as overly grim or dark realities. Everything feels so real but is not boring, and plot is never sacrificed. I can't say enough good things about this book. I loved it so much!
May 3, 2021
The People of Ostrich Mountain is a family saga and piece of cultural fiction. Set in Kenya, the story begins in the 1950s and introduces us to Wambũi. As a teenager she leaves her village to attend a prestigious boarding school where she meets Eileen Atwood, a teacher who would become her friend and mentor.
Although Wambũi is a gifted mathematician, she trains to be a teacher of maths so that she can stay close to her family and help them out financially. After her marriage she helps run a successful hardware store.
In part two of the book, we meet Wambũi’s grown-up son Ray and read of his struggles to become a medical student and later his successes in America. We also return to Eileen’s tale, who after forty years living in Kenya was forced to leave her job and return to England.
I enjoyed reading this and learning about Kenya and its history, particularly for those who lived and worked outside of the main cities. Some of my favourite parts were reading about Wambũi’s family hierarchy and their respect of family values. I also liked the story behind the book title which I won’t give away here.
Although Wambũi is a gifted mathematician, she trains to be a teacher of maths so that she can stay close to her family and help them out financially. After her marriage she helps run a successful hardware store.
In part two of the book, we meet Wambũi’s grown-up son Ray and read of his struggles to become a medical student and later his successes in America. We also return to Eileen’s tale, who after forty years living in Kenya was forced to leave her job and return to England.
I enjoyed reading this and learning about Kenya and its history, particularly for those who lived and worked outside of the main cities. Some of my favourite parts were reading about Wambũi’s family hierarchy and their respect of family values. I also liked the story behind the book title which I won’t give away here.
November 5, 2022
I listened to the Audiobook version of this novel, and while I admit- I didn't love the narrator- I really enjoyed this book.
The novel begins in a critical time in Kenyan history- the 1950's with the Mau Mau rebellion- or as it is better known in Kenya- The Emergency -and takes us through to more current times. The main character Wanbui starts the novel attending a prestigious boarding school where everyone is required to go barefoot as not all girls had shoes- and ends texting her daughter -thousands of miles away- as she waits for an appointment at a university in Nairobi.
What is unique to this novel is that there are actually several main characters- Wambui - a young school girl at the time of the rebellion, her British ex-patriate teacher Eileen, and her son Raymond. Through the novel, there was a shifting focus between each character, but- just as I began to wonder what happened to one- a new chapter would pop up- updating me. It's a complex novel - spanning 5 decades and covering events in the US, Kenya and the UK. This book would be an excellent book club book or reading for students- there are many jumping off points for discussion of race, disability, history, healthcare, and gender issues.
Like many who picked up this book- I've worked in Africa for many years, never in Kenya- which was always a stop over point when I was working in South Sudan during their war. So I felt familiar with Kenya- and East Africa. The life scenarios and situations described seemed very accurate and I rather enjoyed reading exactly how Ray managed to exchange his MD training year - scheduled for a terrible location, for a more acceptable one. It reminded me of so many instances of getting on a timely flight, or explaining away a missing passport stamp were a matter of luck and who knew someone.
Somehow the author is able to make the stories of a mother and son, and a favorite teacher all come together - in three separate countries, and have so much meaning. Rich in detail- but not weighted down with excessive prose- the book really transported me to Kenya, and then to the cold streets of Chicago, and the damp gray of England, as I followed with interest the life choices of the three characters, and cheered as each successfully navigated their lives. Towards the end, I found myself wondering how the author would wrap it up- but- just like that- a satisfying conclusion!
Highly recommend this novel. Excellent choice for people interested in Africa, immigration, women's issues, and even healthcare in the US.
The novel begins in a critical time in Kenyan history- the 1950's with the Mau Mau rebellion- or as it is better known in Kenya- The Emergency -and takes us through to more current times. The main character Wanbui starts the novel attending a prestigious boarding school where everyone is required to go barefoot as not all girls had shoes- and ends texting her daughter -thousands of miles away- as she waits for an appointment at a university in Nairobi.
What is unique to this novel is that there are actually several main characters- Wambui - a young school girl at the time of the rebellion, her British ex-patriate teacher Eileen, and her son Raymond. Through the novel, there was a shifting focus between each character, but- just as I began to wonder what happened to one- a new chapter would pop up- updating me. It's a complex novel - spanning 5 decades and covering events in the US, Kenya and the UK. This book would be an excellent book club book or reading for students- there are many jumping off points for discussion of race, disability, history, healthcare, and gender issues.
Like many who picked up this book- I've worked in Africa for many years, never in Kenya- which was always a stop over point when I was working in South Sudan during their war. So I felt familiar with Kenya- and East Africa. The life scenarios and situations described seemed very accurate and I rather enjoyed reading exactly how Ray managed to exchange his MD training year - scheduled for a terrible location, for a more acceptable one. It reminded me of so many instances of getting on a timely flight, or explaining away a missing passport stamp were a matter of luck and who knew someone.
Somehow the author is able to make the stories of a mother and son, and a favorite teacher all come together - in three separate countries, and have so much meaning. Rich in detail- but not weighted down with excessive prose- the book really transported me to Kenya, and then to the cold streets of Chicago, and the damp gray of England, as I followed with interest the life choices of the three characters, and cheered as each successfully navigated their lives. Towards the end, I found myself wondering how the author would wrap it up- but- just like that- a satisfying conclusion!
Highly recommend this novel. Excellent choice for people interested in Africa, immigration, women's issues, and even healthcare in the US.
October 1, 2021
Why Don’t More People Know About This Book?!
It was refreshing to read about a typical Kenyan family experience from someone who understands our culture and peculiarities that make Kenyans unique.
My only disappointment in the flow of the story is the jump from one time band to another without a well developed transition. A good example is the jump from the emergency period to post independence Kenya.
Wambui as a character was well developed but I feel that the writer did not give us a chance to see her full potential.
I was a little lost as to where Ray fitted into the story. There is a big chunk missing from when he was a student in high school to how he became a medical student.
My favorite character in the story remains Eileen. She epitomizes the sacrifice and dedication that the teachers of pre independent Kenya showed. Her friendship with Wambui in their latter years was beautiful to read and completely believable.
I look forward to reading more books from Dr Githaiga and will add him to my list of “must have” novelists.
It was refreshing to read about a typical Kenyan family experience from someone who understands our culture and peculiarities that make Kenyans unique.
My only disappointment in the flow of the story is the jump from one time band to another without a well developed transition. A good example is the jump from the emergency period to post independence Kenya.
Wambui as a character was well developed but I feel that the writer did not give us a chance to see her full potential.
I was a little lost as to where Ray fitted into the story. There is a big chunk missing from when he was a student in high school to how he became a medical student.
My favorite character in the story remains Eileen. She epitomizes the sacrifice and dedication that the teachers of pre independent Kenya showed. Her friendship with Wambui in their latter years was beautiful to read and completely believable.
I look forward to reading more books from Dr Githaiga and will add him to my list of “must have” novelists.
November 13, 2022
This one was really just ok. The strength is definitely the historical/geopolitical information, and the opening is promising. After the story starts to move away from a linear following of Wambui, it weakens significantly. I don’t think I’d seek out any other works by Githaiga.
Audio: the narrator does the work no favors with his monotonous sing-song presentation. There were times I needed to stop the audio and move to reading it to stay engaged. I will be actively avoiding any other works narrated by Lee Goettl.
Thank you to Ndirangu Githaiga, Lee Goettl, Bon Esprit Books, and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Audio: the narrator does the work no favors with his monotonous sing-song presentation. There were times I needed to stop the audio and move to reading it to stay engaged. I will be actively avoiding any other works narrated by Lee Goettl.
Thank you to Ndirangu Githaiga, Lee Goettl, Bon Esprit Books, and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2020
Excellent writing; a book in which the characters are Kenyan, with Kenyan names, living in Kenya. Recommended for all children of Immigrants, especially African Immigrants.
A well crafted story whose characters have names like my own, set in the country where I grew up, living through the history my parents experienced. What more could one ask for in a tale?
A well crafted story whose characters have names like my own, set in the country where I grew up, living through the history my parents experienced. What more could one ask for in a tale?
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September 30, 2023The People of Ostrich Mountain by Ndirangu Githaiga. 🧡
This historical fiction novel begins with Wambūi, a Kenyan girl in the 1950s, and also focuses on her son, Ray, a medical student who immigrates to America, and Eileen, Wambūi’s teacher in Kenya. The novel encompasses quite a bit of Kenyan history in the midst of telling their story, and I learned a lot. @ndirangu.githaiga is a native Kenyan who has immigrated to America and is a practicing physician, and his novel spoke to his understanding of Kenyan culture, the immigration experience, and his knowledge of medical practice.
This novel was a particularly special read for me because my mother, who grew up in East Africa, read it first and annotated it for me with insights into her life experiences. She could relate quite a bit to the Eileen character for whom Africa and its people feels like home. I was fascinated by the way that so many aspects of African culture described in the novel, or even specific terms referenced, were very familiar to me having been raised by my mother. There was one mention of a kanga and an explanation of what it was, which made me smile. Probably not many girls raised in Virginia grew up using kangas as beach towels/coverups. 🥰
It was my first experience reading a book with someone else’s annotations intended for me, and it was such a fun one! I fully intend to do this in the future with my daughter.
This historical fiction novel begins with Wambūi, a Kenyan girl in the 1950s, and also focuses on her son, Ray, a medical student who immigrates to America, and Eileen, Wambūi’s teacher in Kenya. The novel encompasses quite a bit of Kenyan history in the midst of telling their story, and I learned a lot. @ndirangu.githaiga is a native Kenyan who has immigrated to America and is a practicing physician, and his novel spoke to his understanding of Kenyan culture, the immigration experience, and his knowledge of medical practice.
This novel was a particularly special read for me because my mother, who grew up in East Africa, read it first and annotated it for me with insights into her life experiences. She could relate quite a bit to the Eileen character for whom Africa and its people feels like home. I was fascinated by the way that so many aspects of African culture described in the novel, or even specific terms referenced, were very familiar to me having been raised by my mother. There was one mention of a kanga and an explanation of what it was, which made me smile. Probably not many girls raised in Virginia grew up using kangas as beach towels/coverups. 🥰
It was my first experience reading a book with someone else’s annotations intended for me, and it was such a fun one! I fully intend to do this in the future with my daughter.
November 25, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Bon Espirit Books for accepting my request to audibly read and review The People of Ostrich Mountain.
Author: Ndirangu Githaiga
Narrator: Lee Goettl
Published: 03/31/21
Genre: Historical Fiction -- Literary Fiction -- Multicultural Interest
A difficult read in that I couldn't keep track of where I was, who the story was focused on, and their relationships. Giving examples could feasibly be a spoiler, so I'm not going there. There wasn't enough character building for me. The author packed five generations into 8.5 hours -- 300 pages. It read like an outline.
I do believe there is a story here. I do not have enough knowledge about Kenya and the customs to understand a skimming tale.
Author: Ndirangu Githaiga
Narrator: Lee Goettl
Published: 03/31/21
Genre: Historical Fiction -- Literary Fiction -- Multicultural Interest
A difficult read in that I couldn't keep track of where I was, who the story was focused on, and their relationships. Giving examples could feasibly be a spoiler, so I'm not going there. There wasn't enough character building for me. The author packed five generations into 8.5 hours -- 300 pages. It read like an outline.
I do believe there is a story here. I do not have enough knowledge about Kenya and the customs to understand a skimming tale.
March 18, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this well written Historical Fiction novel set primarily in Kenya. It follows the story of Wanbūi through her experiences of education in a religious school and the power of connections, family and kindness. The story shifts between her story as she ages, her teacher's story as she moves away from Kenya to discover that she really doesn't know what home is and her son's story as he embarks on a medical career in the United States. Moving between Kenya, the UK and the US, Githaigu explores the difficulties and joys faced by Wanbūi as she becomes the first in her family to get an education but also have that education halted because of the financial struggles that her family faced.
I really enjoyed the narrative, the characters and the wonderful descriptions of the places that anchor the story. Highly recommended. I will be checking out the author's other novels, as well.
I really enjoyed the narrative, the characters and the wonderful descriptions of the places that anchor the story. Highly recommended. I will be checking out the author's other novels, as well.
January 6, 2023
I really like books about history and foreign countries. This family saga is very interesting and I liked the characters a lot. It is fun to follow their development and their life in different countries and situations. I was quite surprised that the character of the English teacher played such a big role and was shown as a part of the country.
I recommend this book highly!
I recommend this book highly!
October 16, 2022
There's always something memorable about the books that take you back into time or those that have characters and stories set upon some time in history- and more often than not, such stories serve as reminders of the events that happened and how it affected people.
In this book, set in the 1950s at a time when Kenya was fighting for her independence, and follows the life of Wambui. She goes to Alliance, gets an education at a time when her mates are getting married, but her Father is steadfast and insists that his daughter will go and get an education- probably the only man in that village who foresaw the future and changing times.
From then, it's an account of the people who influence her life, like Eileen Atwood, her teacher- and then down the line the family she creates and her children weaving their way around the world.
The pace makes this an interesting read.
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC.
In this book, set in the 1950s at a time when Kenya was fighting for her independence, and follows the life of Wambui. She goes to Alliance, gets an education at a time when her mates are getting married, but her Father is steadfast and insists that his daughter will go and get an education- probably the only man in that village who foresaw the future and changing times.
From then, it's an account of the people who influence her life, like Eileen Atwood, her teacher- and then down the line the family she creates and her children weaving their way around the world.
The pace makes this an interesting read.
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC.
July 11, 2022
A Must Read!
This book is one of the best books I have read in a very long time. I felt sad when it ended. It accomplishes a somewhat difficult task of deeply writing about one generation and then rolling into the next, switching who the main character is several times. Other books leave you confused and questioning, not this one. It is like a river with clear tributaries feeding from the source and then joining back again. I also loved the point of view, written about a black woman who is brilliant and of tribal origins. We get to see and feel what that world is like and follow her through each struggle as well as each triumph and heartache. And we get to experience the difference one compassionate woman can make for her entire village and beyond. The juxtapositions are delightful in this book. I am eagerly awaiting another book from this author.
This book is one of the best books I have read in a very long time. I felt sad when it ended. It accomplishes a somewhat difficult task of deeply writing about one generation and then rolling into the next, switching who the main character is several times. Other books leave you confused and questioning, not this one. It is like a river with clear tributaries feeding from the source and then joining back again. I also loved the point of view, written about a black woman who is brilliant and of tribal origins. We get to see and feel what that world is like and follow her through each struggle as well as each triumph and heartache. And we get to experience the difference one compassionate woman can make for her entire village and beyond. The juxtapositions are delightful in this book. I am eagerly awaiting another book from this author.
November 18, 2025
3.5 stars. We first get to know the main character, Wambui, as a child in Kenya in the 1950s and follow her for many decades. As a young student, she is identified as a math whiz, so she leaves home to attend a prestigious boarding school quite a long way from her village. There, she meets Eileen, who is one of the teachers and, as time goes by, becomes a trusted and dear mentor and friend. Eileen spends most of her life in Kenya and feels untethered when she has to return to England in her forced retirement. After many years apart, Wambui insists that Eileen return to Kenya in her later years, knowing that is where she will be the happiest. In addition to these two women, the author also tells the story of Ray, Wambui's son, as he navigates the rigor of medical school in Africa and then residency in the U.S. He faces a variety of hurdles, including governmental instability in Kenya that almost prevents him from obtaining proper immigration documentation and overt racism during his time in the U.S.
The setting in Africa was wonderfully descriptive. I especially enjoyed the details of Wambui's travel to and from school and her adult livelihood. She was spunky and resourceful as an adolescent and strong and surefooted as an adult, which are character traits that I always admire. Eileen was the epitome of a caring and compassionate teacher, and education is at the heart of the story. I would have liked more detail about the years in between their main storylines so that we had more of a sense of their expanding friendship and their day-to-day life during that time. In fact, I think their story is all that was needed in this book - I would have enjoyed a more layered and complete picture of their lives and would have been content if the book had focused strictly on them. When Ray's story took over, it felt a little bit abrupt, and I missed Wambui and Eileen. His storyline seemed removed and disconnected from theirs and, in fact, I would have happily read a book just about Ray's story with a more expanded timeline and additional details. It was very interesting but was a bit of a disjointed interlude. Overall, this book provided a beautiful window into a country and culture that I'd like to know more about and introduced characters that I enjoyed spending my time with. The importance of education in shaping a person, a family, and an entire community really resonated with me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bon Esprit Books for a digital copy to review.
The setting in Africa was wonderfully descriptive. I especially enjoyed the details of Wambui's travel to and from school and her adult livelihood. She was spunky and resourceful as an adolescent and strong and surefooted as an adult, which are character traits that I always admire. Eileen was the epitome of a caring and compassionate teacher, and education is at the heart of the story. I would have liked more detail about the years in between their main storylines so that we had more of a sense of their expanding friendship and their day-to-day life during that time. In fact, I think their story is all that was needed in this book - I would have enjoyed a more layered and complete picture of their lives and would have been content if the book had focused strictly on them. When Ray's story took over, it felt a little bit abrupt, and I missed Wambui and Eileen. His storyline seemed removed and disconnected from theirs and, in fact, I would have happily read a book just about Ray's story with a more expanded timeline and additional details. It was very interesting but was a bit of a disjointed interlude. Overall, this book provided a beautiful window into a country and culture that I'd like to know more about and introduced characters that I enjoyed spending my time with. The importance of education in shaping a person, a family, and an entire community really resonated with me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bon Esprit Books for a digital copy to review.
December 19, 2022
NOTE: I received free access to this manuscript in exchange for writing an impartial review. Thank you NetGalley and Bon Esprit Books. Publication: May 9, 2020.
THE PEOPLE OF OSTRICH MOUNTAIN takes on the transition from British colonial control to an independent Kenya. The story covers 50 years and three continents, beginning in the 1950s when local guerrilla fighters (Mau Mau) launch the war that will ultimately lead to Kenyan independence. Author Ndirangu Githaiga uses the daily lives of a handful of individuals, both British and Kenyan, to tell this larger story:
• Wambũi, a 14-year old girl, whose family lives a simple, subsistence village life. When the violence of war and increasingly repressive government measures begin to threaten her village, Wambũi‘s family makes the difficult decision to send her away to boarding school, one of the first dedicated to educating girls.
• Eileen Atwood, a dedicated British teacher devoting her life to her students. She is the first to notice Wambũi‘s extraordinary mathematical abilities and is determined to develop her talents. Even if Wambũi dislikes the extra attention.
• Ray, Wambũi‘s son, a gifted physician who winds up experiencing all the discrimination and prejudice typical of a black man living in an American urban city.
As decades pass, lasting friendships form, unexpected opportunities appear, and material success transforms lives. The fledging independence of Kenya brings its own restrictions. What becomes apparent in this novel is the profound impact individual life decisions can have on the ultimate life one leads. As well as the ways societal events and attitudes can impose unexpected limitations to and interference in an individual's goals.
On the plus side, I learned a lot about how one African country took control away from a colonial power and about the difficulties and rewards of transitioning to independence. On the minus side, I felt the book lacked focus. Stories jumped around, time passed abruptly, and some passages (like a long description of a safari in the Maasai Mara) felt like they were added for no discernible reason. I also never found myself emotionally involved with the main characters. So, I’d only recommend this one to those interested in the subject matter or time period.
THE PEOPLE OF OSTRICH MOUNTAIN takes on the transition from British colonial control to an independent Kenya. The story covers 50 years and three continents, beginning in the 1950s when local guerrilla fighters (Mau Mau) launch the war that will ultimately lead to Kenyan independence. Author Ndirangu Githaiga uses the daily lives of a handful of individuals, both British and Kenyan, to tell this larger story:
• Wambũi, a 14-year old girl, whose family lives a simple, subsistence village life. When the violence of war and increasingly repressive government measures begin to threaten her village, Wambũi‘s family makes the difficult decision to send her away to boarding school, one of the first dedicated to educating girls.
• Eileen Atwood, a dedicated British teacher devoting her life to her students. She is the first to notice Wambũi‘s extraordinary mathematical abilities and is determined to develop her talents. Even if Wambũi dislikes the extra attention.
• Ray, Wambũi‘s son, a gifted physician who winds up experiencing all the discrimination and prejudice typical of a black man living in an American urban city.
As decades pass, lasting friendships form, unexpected opportunities appear, and material success transforms lives. The fledging independence of Kenya brings its own restrictions. What becomes apparent in this novel is the profound impact individual life decisions can have on the ultimate life one leads. As well as the ways societal events and attitudes can impose unexpected limitations to and interference in an individual's goals.
On the plus side, I learned a lot about how one African country took control away from a colonial power and about the difficulties and rewards of transitioning to independence. On the minus side, I felt the book lacked focus. Stories jumped around, time passed abruptly, and some passages (like a long description of a safari in the Maasai Mara) felt like they were added for no discernible reason. I also never found myself emotionally involved with the main characters. So, I’d only recommend this one to those interested in the subject matter or time period.
February 18, 2023
Very interesting book that spans generations and countries. The book starts in the 1950s, during the Mau Mau rebellion in Kenya, where Wambui, in a village near Mt.Kenya ( the mountain that gives the country its name), and her family are trying to live through a time of great upheaval and increased colonial repression. This section was compelling reading, as I haven't read anything set in this period before, and I'm definitely going to read more that explores the conflict and Kenyan independence. The story follows her life through school and marriage, and then goes on to her son's life as he moves to the USA to pursue medicine. It's very relatable because the circumstances in India are quite similar to Kenya, and some things are very well described-crowding around a notice board to see your results in exams, bureaucracy that's whimsical and so on. A third strand of the story, and the least interesting, in my opinion, follows the story of one of Wambui's white ENglish teachers at school. THis didn't add to the book at all, and I would have preferred more time spent on Kenya's Independence conflict and the transition, or even on how Wambui navigated a deeply patriarchal society to be a successful entrepreneur-that's given barely any pages and would have made for a far more interesting story. I also didn't really like some of the didacticism later on in the story, about the supposed cruelty of assisted living places for seniors in developed countries as opposed to the supposedly more caring societies of countries like Kenya-there's more than enough statistical evidence to show that developed countries are far ahead when it comes to comparatively better care for elders. Developing countries have a terrible track record when it comes to elder care, and I don't know why the writer, who lives in the US, would devote so many pages to something that's patently untrue and a very harmful cliche, because it allows governments to ignore elder care as a problem under the pretense that the "family unit"would take care of them ( which is basically code for the women of the hoursehold would handle it).
THis is a very interesting book, though, and sent me down a rabbithole of looking for more nonfiction on colonial repression in Kenya. Definitely read this compelling book!
THis is a very interesting book, though, and sent me down a rabbithole of looking for more nonfiction on colonial repression in Kenya. Definitely read this compelling book!
February 3, 2024
I will premise this review with, normally, Historial Fiction as my go-to genre. I enjoy reading books about different cultures and seeing how the characters rise above their trials and tribulations, especially when war or civil war is at the story's core. Still, Ndirangu Githaiga's "The People of the Ostrich Mountain" offers a three-star reading experience, marked by a blend of vivid descriptions of the Kenyan countryside and cultural intricacies, alongside challenges in pacing and narration.
While Githaiga excels in painting a detailed and captivating picture of the Ostrich People's world, the narrative's length and occasional long-windedness may deter some readers. The timeline's complexity can be confusing, leaving readers uncertain about their place in the story and impacting the overall engagement.
The audiobook's narration, handled by Lee Goettl, presents a mismatch in tone for some listeners. Goettl's delivery, reminiscent of middle-grade or young adult storytelling, feels out of sync with the adult fiction genre. This stylistic choice may hinder the immersive experience for those expecting a more mature narrative voice.
Despite these challenges, the novel's redeeming qualities lie in its picturesque depictions of the Kenyan countryside and the cultural richness of the Ostrich People. Githaiga's ability to transport readers into a vibrant and unique setting is commendable, offering a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Kenyan life.
In summary, "The People of the Ostrich Mountain" earns a three-star rating for its well-crafted descriptions and cultural insights, albeit hindered by pacing issues, timeline confusion, and a narrative tone that may not align with all readers' expectations. While the story fell short for this reviewer, those appreciating rich cultural depictions and descriptive prose may still find elements to enjoy in Githaiga's narrative.
Thank you to NetGalley and the following publishers, Bon Esprite Books, The Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and Members Audiobooks, for the audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review.
While Githaiga excels in painting a detailed and captivating picture of the Ostrich People's world, the narrative's length and occasional long-windedness may deter some readers. The timeline's complexity can be confusing, leaving readers uncertain about their place in the story and impacting the overall engagement.
The audiobook's narration, handled by Lee Goettl, presents a mismatch in tone for some listeners. Goettl's delivery, reminiscent of middle-grade or young adult storytelling, feels out of sync with the adult fiction genre. This stylistic choice may hinder the immersive experience for those expecting a more mature narrative voice.
Despite these challenges, the novel's redeeming qualities lie in its picturesque depictions of the Kenyan countryside and the cultural richness of the Ostrich People. Githaiga's ability to transport readers into a vibrant and unique setting is commendable, offering a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Kenyan life.
In summary, "The People of the Ostrich Mountain" earns a three-star rating for its well-crafted descriptions and cultural insights, albeit hindered by pacing issues, timeline confusion, and a narrative tone that may not align with all readers' expectations. While the story fell short for this reviewer, those appreciating rich cultural depictions and descriptive prose may still find elements to enjoy in Githaiga's narrative.
Thank you to NetGalley and the following publishers, Bon Esprite Books, The Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and Members Audiobooks, for the audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 28, 2024
Dr. Ndirangu Githaiga‘s book, “The People of Ostrich Mountain”, blew me away. If I could have given it more stars I would have. I eagerly anticipated reading every carefully chosen word and every page of this fantastic book. Everything about the book is wonderful: its beautiful, vivid, poetic language, the many characters’s interweaving, loving, or at least complicated, relationships, the back and forth between several continents and countries. The book is filled with so much love, compassion, and empathy that despite some difficult experiences, it’s an extremely heartwarming story. I can see myself easily rereading it, which is extremely rare. There have been only two or three books that I ever have wanted to read more than once.
Maybe because my son is finishing medical school shortly and is waiting for his residency match to come in a few weeks I was able to relate fully to and empathize with the medical aspects of the book. Prior to my son’s medical school training, much of the technical, medical jargon would most likely have been lost on me; I would have been bored and skipped over much of it. I didn’t realize until I finished the book that it was written by a physician, which helps explain the author’s intimate knowledge of and ability to evoke medical students’s experiences, feelings and emotions.
Further, I only last year went on several safaris in South Africa, so I connected closely with the African experiences described; and though frequent use of foreign languages within stories tends to slow me down and annoy me, in this book it enhanced my reading pleasure and added to, not subtracted from, my overall positive feelings. If I had a hard copy of this book, it would sit upon my shelf forever, along with favorites such as “Cutting for Stone” and “The God of Small Things.”
I am most grateful to NetGalley, Dr. Githaiga, and Bon Esprit for giving me an advanced, reader’s copy of “The People of Ostrich Mountain” for free. I have reviewed this book VOLUNTARILY.
Maybe because my son is finishing medical school shortly and is waiting for his residency match to come in a few weeks I was able to relate fully to and empathize with the medical aspects of the book. Prior to my son’s medical school training, much of the technical, medical jargon would most likely have been lost on me; I would have been bored and skipped over much of it. I didn’t realize until I finished the book that it was written by a physician, which helps explain the author’s intimate knowledge of and ability to evoke medical students’s experiences, feelings and emotions.
Further, I only last year went on several safaris in South Africa, so I connected closely with the African experiences described; and though frequent use of foreign languages within stories tends to slow me down and annoy me, in this book it enhanced my reading pleasure and added to, not subtracted from, my overall positive feelings. If I had a hard copy of this book, it would sit upon my shelf forever, along with favorites such as “Cutting for Stone” and “The God of Small Things.”
I am most grateful to NetGalley, Dr. Githaiga, and Bon Esprit for giving me an advanced, reader’s copy of “The People of Ostrich Mountain” for free. I have reviewed this book VOLUNTARILY.
November 11, 2022
**𝐀𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟏𝟗𝟓𝟎𝐬' 𝐌𝐚𝐮 𝐌𝐚𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐫 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐭. 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚, 𝐖𝐚𝐦𝐛ũ𝐢, 𝐚 𝟏𝟒-𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫-𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥, 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐟 𝐝𝐚𝐲’𝐬 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞, 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐀𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝.
𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲, 𝐖𝐚𝐦𝐛ũ𝐢 𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐄𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩. 𝐔𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐦𝐛ũ𝐢, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐝-𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐲, 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐧𝐮𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐠𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬.**
When I say I need a sweeping story that spans over generations...this is what I mean!!!
Such an epic family saga where each character's story is so intricate even though they are interwoven with one another.
The narrative voice of this story was bloody beautiful...there was a softness and warmth to it that we saw reflected in so many of the connections made between the characters.
I wish I could put my finger on what exactly made this such an easy and enjoyable read.
Maybe it was the historical and sociopolitical aspects being explored from such a humane and emotional POV?
Perhaps it was the believability of the story? Perhaps it was the vivid imagery that transports the reader...
I don't know but it gets a high star rating from me! (I actually went into it expecting to be a bit bored and to have to force my way through it, so coming out the other end, I wonder why more people aren't talking about it)
𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲, 𝐖𝐚𝐦𝐛ũ𝐢 𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐄𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩. 𝐔𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐦𝐛ũ𝐢, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐝-𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐲, 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐧𝐮𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐠𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬.**
When I say I need a sweeping story that spans over generations...this is what I mean!!!
Such an epic family saga where each character's story is so intricate even though they are interwoven with one another.
The narrative voice of this story was bloody beautiful...there was a softness and warmth to it that we saw reflected in so many of the connections made between the characters.
I wish I could put my finger on what exactly made this such an easy and enjoyable read.
Maybe it was the historical and sociopolitical aspects being explored from such a humane and emotional POV?
Perhaps it was the believability of the story? Perhaps it was the vivid imagery that transports the reader...
I don't know but it gets a high star rating from me! (I actually went into it expecting to be a bit bored and to have to force my way through it, so coming out the other end, I wonder why more people aren't talking about it)
October 15, 2022
This well-written saga has us following 3 people as they experience trials and tribulations in their lives.
Wambũi, a 14 yr old Kenyan girl, leaves her home to go to a boarding school far from home. While at school she forms a life-long friendship with one of her teachers, Aileen Atwood. Wambui will come to depend on Aileen throughout her life. Although Wambui becomes a math teacher she eventually leaves teaching to help her husband and father-in-law run their hardware store. Her shrewd business sense allows her to help their business expand and grow beyond their expectations.
Wambũi's son Ray, while studying to be a doctor in Chicago experiences prejudice at every turn although his love of medicine allows him to let it go.
After 40 years Aileen is heartbroken when she has to return to England after losing her teaching job. She felt that Kenya was her home but she lost her job due to her "being a foreigner" per Administration. Ironic that she would experience discrimination in Kenya while Ray would experience it in America.
I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Kenyan culture and family loyalties in this novel. The narrator, Lee Goettl, has a soothing voice which was easy to listen to. I found myself a little frustrated with his choice of the stuttering voice for Ray. I actually had to jump ahead or would have put the audiobook down which I did not want to do. This did not take away from the beautiful writing of Ndirangu Githaiga.
My thanks to #NetGalley and Bon Esprit Books for the ARC. This opinion/review is my own.
Wambũi, a 14 yr old Kenyan girl, leaves her home to go to a boarding school far from home. While at school she forms a life-long friendship with one of her teachers, Aileen Atwood. Wambui will come to depend on Aileen throughout her life. Although Wambui becomes a math teacher she eventually leaves teaching to help her husband and father-in-law run their hardware store. Her shrewd business sense allows her to help their business expand and grow beyond their expectations.
Wambũi's son Ray, while studying to be a doctor in Chicago experiences prejudice at every turn although his love of medicine allows him to let it go.
After 40 years Aileen is heartbroken when she has to return to England after losing her teaching job. She felt that Kenya was her home but she lost her job due to her "being a foreigner" per Administration. Ironic that she would experience discrimination in Kenya while Ray would experience it in America.
I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Kenyan culture and family loyalties in this novel. The narrator, Lee Goettl, has a soothing voice which was easy to listen to. I found myself a little frustrated with his choice of the stuttering voice for Ray. I actually had to jump ahead or would have put the audiobook down which I did not want to do. This did not take away from the beautiful writing of Ndirangu Githaiga.
My thanks to #NetGalley and Bon Esprit Books for the ARC. This opinion/review is my own.
March 9, 2025
A historical fiction novel, the story begins in 1952 during the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya and spans five decades across three continents. It follows the life of Wambũi, a fourteen-year-old girl from a besieged village who attends Alliance High School, where her exceptional mathematical abilities are recognized by her teacher, Eileen Atwood. The book explores themes such as friendship, family, race, gender, love and immigration as it chronicles the interconnected lives of Wambũi, her son Ray, Muthoni, TK son and Eileen.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its exploration of identity, how personal histories shape us, how culture and race define experiences, and how seemingly small decisions ripple through generations. The characters are richly drawn, and their relationships feel authentic, particularly the mentor-student dynamic between Wambũi and her teacher,Madam Eileen.
The novel has multiple timelines and perspectives with grace, ensuring that the narrative remains cohesive and compelling. The transitions between colonial Kenya, contemporary America, and post-colonial Europe feel seamless, allowing readers to experience the full breadth of the characters’ lives.
The People of Ostrich Mountain is an absorbing and deeply moving novel that deserves a place on every historical fiction lover’s bookshelf. It is a story of resilience, displacement, and the enduring power of human connection a masterful debut that establishes Ndirangu Githaiga as a writer to watch. Such an amazing read! I highly recommend it.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its exploration of identity, how personal histories shape us, how culture and race define experiences, and how seemingly small decisions ripple through generations. The characters are richly drawn, and their relationships feel authentic, particularly the mentor-student dynamic between Wambũi and her teacher,Madam Eileen.
The novel has multiple timelines and perspectives with grace, ensuring that the narrative remains cohesive and compelling. The transitions between colonial Kenya, contemporary America, and post-colonial Europe feel seamless, allowing readers to experience the full breadth of the characters’ lives.
The People of Ostrich Mountain is an absorbing and deeply moving novel that deserves a place on every historical fiction lover’s bookshelf. It is a story of resilience, displacement, and the enduring power of human connection a masterful debut that establishes Ndirangu Githaiga as a writer to watch. Such an amazing read! I highly recommend it.
November 20, 2022
A saga of family and friendship spanning five decades and three continents.
We begin in the 1950s village, located in the shadow of Mt Kenya. As the Mau Mau grow in strength...young men are disappearing from the village to join up and fight for freedom. They inflict horrific deaths on those that support or associate with the British.
Wambũi, is fourteen-years-old and is given the chance of a lifetime to leave her besieged village to join a prestigious boarding school a half day’s journey away by train.
Eileen Atwood is a British teacher at the school. What begins as suspicion and hostility on Wambuis part, becomes a lifelong friendship.
Then, Wambũi's son Ray is training as a doctor in Kenya. He is lucky enough to travel to America to undertake a residentancy. Life is certainly different in Chicago ....racism is rife.
For me personally, The People of Ostrich Mountain bought back treasured memories of my time in Kenya. The graphic and emotive description of Eileen's visit to Masai Mara bought tears to my eyes. One of my most favourite places ever too. The tears didn't stop the following day when we learn of the saddest loss.
I believe you are always best writing about what you know. Ndirangu Githaiga proves this. Thank you for taking me back to a most special part fo the world.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bon Esprit Books and Ndirangu for this copy.
We begin in the 1950s village, located in the shadow of Mt Kenya. As the Mau Mau grow in strength...young men are disappearing from the village to join up and fight for freedom. They inflict horrific deaths on those that support or associate with the British.
Wambũi, is fourteen-years-old and is given the chance of a lifetime to leave her besieged village to join a prestigious boarding school a half day’s journey away by train.
Eileen Atwood is a British teacher at the school. What begins as suspicion and hostility on Wambuis part, becomes a lifelong friendship.
Then, Wambũi's son Ray is training as a doctor in Kenya. He is lucky enough to travel to America to undertake a residentancy. Life is certainly different in Chicago ....racism is rife.
For me personally, The People of Ostrich Mountain bought back treasured memories of my time in Kenya. The graphic and emotive description of Eileen's visit to Masai Mara bought tears to my eyes. One of my most favourite places ever too. The tears didn't stop the following day when we learn of the saddest loss.
I believe you are always best writing about what you know. Ndirangu Githaiga proves this. Thank you for taking me back to a most special part fo the world.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bon Esprit Books and Ndirangu for this copy.
December 31, 2022
In the 1950s, while war breaks out in the foothills of Mt. Kenya, Wambũi is a 14-year-old girl leaving her home to attend boarding school several hours away by train. Wambũi’s incredible mathematical talent catches the eye of her teacher, Eileen Atwood, and the two start a lifelong friendship while Eileen tries to get Wambũi to make the most of her mathematical skills. Unfortunately, 1950s Kenya isn’t kind to female academics, and Wambũi has to look for ways to use her skills outside academia. The story continues to follow Wambũi, her son, and Eileen through the decades to come.
Githaiga did a fabulous job setting this fictional story in the real-life climate of 1950s and on Kenya; I liked learning about this history that is not usually covered in fictional stories. My favorite part of the book was Wambũi’s story. I also liked Eileen’s story at the end; the story line about Wambũi’s son didn’t interest me quite as much. As a math lover, I must admit that I was disappointed we didn’t get a chance to see Wambũi’s full potential with her math skills, but the plot about having to leave school to help her family was very real to life for a majority of people. Overall, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it!
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
Githaiga did a fabulous job setting this fictional story in the real-life climate of 1950s and on Kenya; I liked learning about this history that is not usually covered in fictional stories. My favorite part of the book was Wambũi’s story. I also liked Eileen’s story at the end; the story line about Wambũi’s son didn’t interest me quite as much. As a math lover, I must admit that I was disappointed we didn’t get a chance to see Wambũi’s full potential with her math skills, but the plot about having to leave school to help her family was very real to life for a majority of people. Overall, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it!
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
August 21, 2024
This is the wholesome story of Wambũi, a girl growing up on the slopes of Mount Kenya in the 1950s, a time of tremendous change. Wambũi contends with, among other things, the whispers around the village about the guerrilla fighters in the area, and her move to a prestigious boarding school where she excels at mathematics and gradually forms an attachment with a missionary teacher from England, Eileen. The novel follows Wambũi’s progress through these years and into adulthood, her eventual settling into a career as a shopkeeper, and then her children’s own progress through the world. We also learn about how Eileen came to settle in Kenya and how it became her home, so much so that she is heartbroken at being forced to leave and return to the land of her birth, where she’s a stranger.
So this is a love song for Kenya and (the idea of) home, exploring a slice of time through various characters: missionaries, freedom fighters, villagers, colonial police, and all the links between them. It’s a pleasant read, never dwelling deeply or for long on contentious issues; even when Wambũi’s son comes face to face with racism at work at a US hospital, he is non-confrontational, brushing it aside. In other words, this is a feel-good novel with a few sadnesses but ultimately happy endings for everyone. A pleasant way to pass the time, and a well-written book. Recommended for #ReadAroundTheWorld lists.
Thanks to Bon Esprit Books and NetGalley for DRC access.
So this is a love song for Kenya and (the idea of) home, exploring a slice of time through various characters: missionaries, freedom fighters, villagers, colonial police, and all the links between them. It’s a pleasant read, never dwelling deeply or for long on contentious issues; even when Wambũi’s son comes face to face with racism at work at a US hospital, he is non-confrontational, brushing it aside. In other words, this is a feel-good novel with a few sadnesses but ultimately happy endings for everyone. A pleasant way to pass the time, and a well-written book. Recommended for #ReadAroundTheWorld lists.
Thanks to Bon Esprit Books and NetGalley for DRC access.
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January 16, 2023The People of the Ostrich Mountain by Ndirangu Githaiga
Fourteen-year-old Wambũi, lives on the foothills of Mt. Kenya. She attends the white man's school and gets an education. Even with the Mau Mau war, Wambui excels and gains admission to a prestigious all-girls school where she meets Eileen Atwood - a mathematics teacher who discovers Wambui's unique abilities in the subject. Spanning five decades, The People of the Ostrich Mountain is a tale of friendship, education, colonization, family ties, struggles of immigrants, racism, and loyalty.
First, a white man has no business narrating this book. I don't understand why but it just doesn't make sense that a white male voice told this Kenyan story.
Let's move on to the critical part, the first part of this book is excellent. Wambui's story set the book in the right direction. However, the direction changed after Wambui's story abruptly ended. The change in direction by the author made it difficult to like the new characters and appreciate their journey. The storytelling is okay and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to read Kenya Literature. I was hoping the author would explore the Mau Mau War, but that didn't happen exactly how I expected.
I got this copy on NetGalley. Thanks for the audiocopy
Fourteen-year-old Wambũi, lives on the foothills of Mt. Kenya. She attends the white man's school and gets an education. Even with the Mau Mau war, Wambui excels and gains admission to a prestigious all-girls school where she meets Eileen Atwood - a mathematics teacher who discovers Wambui's unique abilities in the subject. Spanning five decades, The People of the Ostrich Mountain is a tale of friendship, education, colonization, family ties, struggles of immigrants, racism, and loyalty.
First, a white man has no business narrating this book. I don't understand why but it just doesn't make sense that a white male voice told this Kenyan story.
Let's move on to the critical part, the first part of this book is excellent. Wambui's story set the book in the right direction. However, the direction changed after Wambui's story abruptly ended. The change in direction by the author made it difficult to like the new characters and appreciate their journey. The storytelling is okay and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to read Kenya Literature. I was hoping the author would explore the Mau Mau War, but that didn't happen exactly how I expected.
I got this copy on NetGalley. Thanks for the audiocopy
June 15, 2023
I picked this book because I thought it portrayed part of the story of Kenia. And it did, but it also did so much more. The author explored mainly the life of Wambui, a little girl who was the daughter of an intuitive farmer that loved his goats. Since she was naturally gifted in math, she got a scholarship to study at a prestigious boarding school for girls. And then, as Wambui's life continued, the book also showed the point of view of her teacher Eileen and her son Ray. In that way, the author managed to create a story similar to a tree, as there was a main trunk and several stories that grew from it.
What I liked: The vivid descriptions and the character's development were outstanding. I really enjoyed this book and loved Wambui. The book was well-written and never boring. I especially liked the small portions of the story dedicated to giving a breve background of secondary characters, because it is rare seeing secondary characters so well defined; such as Wambui's father, or the man who sold sandwiches in Chicago.
What I did not like: I would have wanted a little more context information, as it could be confusing for someone who does not know anything about the history of Kenia. Also, I would have loved to read about Wambui's brother who joined the Mau Mau.
What I liked: The vivid descriptions and the character's development were outstanding. I really enjoyed this book and loved Wambui. The book was well-written and never boring. I especially liked the small portions of the story dedicated to giving a breve background of secondary characters, because it is rare seeing secondary characters so well defined; such as Wambui's father, or the man who sold sandwiches in Chicago.
What I did not like: I would have wanted a little more context information, as it could be confusing for someone who does not know anything about the history of Kenia. Also, I would have loved to read about Wambui's brother who joined the Mau Mau.
March 4, 2023
I received a galley of this book via Netgalley. This does not affect the objectivity of my review.
The People of Ostrich Mountain is a book set in Kenya that follows a young math prodigy named Wambui as she pursues a career in teaching, her son Ray as he pursues an education in America, and her friend Eileen who returns to England after 40 years spent in Kenya.
I really loved that this book is set in Kenya. I haven’t found many books set there, so it was nice to read about Kenyan culture and history.
Wambui was also a really interesting character. I love how dedicated she was to her education and pursuing a teaching career. It’s great seeing a woman portrayed as being good at math. She’s a character young girls can look up to.
I do wish a bit more of the history around the Mau Mau revolution was included. I expected it to be a bigger part of the story, but it was more just a reference.
All in all, if you like historical fiction, strong female characters, and multi-generational stories, you’ll likely enjoy this one.
Audiobook narration: I enjoyed the narration of this story. The narrator was easy to understand and really brought the story to life.
The People of Ostrich Mountain is a book set in Kenya that follows a young math prodigy named Wambui as she pursues a career in teaching, her son Ray as he pursues an education in America, and her friend Eileen who returns to England after 40 years spent in Kenya.
I really loved that this book is set in Kenya. I haven’t found many books set there, so it was nice to read about Kenyan culture and history.
Wambui was also a really interesting character. I love how dedicated she was to her education and pursuing a teaching career. It’s great seeing a woman portrayed as being good at math. She’s a character young girls can look up to.
I do wish a bit more of the history around the Mau Mau revolution was included. I expected it to be a bigger part of the story, but it was more just a reference.
All in all, if you like historical fiction, strong female characters, and multi-generational stories, you’ll likely enjoy this one.
Audiobook narration: I enjoyed the narration of this story. The narrator was easy to understand and really brought the story to life.
October 28, 2022
I enjoyed this audiobook. The setting was very interesting. I have not read many books that take place in Africa. The atmosphere was well developed. I especially liked the main character, Wambũi, a young woman who shows exceptional ability in mathematics. Other storylines include her teacher and son; however, Wambũi is the star of this novel.
The son goes to the US to become a doctor, which is a little cliche. His experiences seemed very realistic. and I felt for him when he was inappropriately dressed for interviews and had no idea about the difficulty of being accepted for medical training. I also appreciated how one of the professors/mentoring physicians stood up for the interns. This was well-written.
I learned about Kenya and the culture from this book, which I always appreciate. The book is well researched.
The ending was lovely. I would love to read a second book about this phase of Wambũi's life.
I would read this author again.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an unbiased review.
The son goes to the US to become a doctor, which is a little cliche. His experiences seemed very realistic. and I felt for him when he was inappropriately dressed for interviews and had no idea about the difficulty of being accepted for medical training. I also appreciated how one of the professors/mentoring physicians stood up for the interns. This was well-written.
I learned about Kenya and the culture from this book, which I always appreciate. The book is well researched.
The ending was lovely. I would love to read a second book about this phase of Wambũi's life.
I would read this author again.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an unbiased review.
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