Set in contemporary Kenya, this Novel makes us retake a sober walk down the memory lane ... without wearing prejudiced tribal goggles, we can see the nakedness of unaddressed social injustices, and realize how such vices continue tearing Kenyans apart.
Oftentimes, the world has been treated to barbaric, savage, and horrific scenes thanks to the so-called ethnic and tribal clashes in Kenya (specially so prior to, during, and after electioneering period). The world has been quick to judge and dismiss such archaic clashes, yet few have been keen on answering the all-important question: why, almost half a decade on after independence, do Kenyans still fight each other?
The UglyBeautiful Tale of a Stupid, Stupid Heart has attempted to give an authentic answer to this question.
2007/2008 Post Election Violence is just one of the many fruits of such failures. And so is the emergence of outlawed gangs such as Mungiki, Chingororo, Bagdad Boys, Kamjesh, and recently, Sabaot Land Defense Force.
However, there are exceptional cases as espoused by David, a Kalenjin, and Wairimu, a Kikuyu (whose two tribes fought over 2007 contested elections). The duo fall in love and stick to their marital vows despite the mutual hatred and deep-seated suspicion shared by their respective tribes. In the end, love conquers and there is hope for a tribeless Kenya.
