Weep Not, Child facts for kids

Weep Not, Child is an important novel by Kenyan writer Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o. It was his very first novel, published in 1964. It was also the first novel written in English by an author from East Africa. The story is about the time when Britain ruled Kenya, known as colonialism, and a big uprising called the Mau Mau Uprising.

Exploring the Story of Weep Not, Child

The main character is a young Kenyan boy named Njoroge. He is the first person in his family to ever go to school. His family lives on land that belongs to Jacobo, a wealthy African man. Jacobo became rich by working with white settlers, like Mr. Howlands.

Many people in Kenya were very interested in the trial of Jomo Kenyatta. They hoped he would help Kenya become an independent country. However, Kenyatta was found guilty and sent to prison. This made many people protest even more. It also led to more strict rules against the local Kenyan people.

Jacobo and Mr. Howlands were against the Mau Mau fighters. The Mau Mau were a group fighting for Kenya's freedom.

Njoroge faces many difficult challenges during these times. He feels a lot of sadness and disappointment. His mothers find him when he is at a very low point. He feels bad about his struggles and wishes he were stronger.

Meet the Characters

• Njoroge is the main character of the novel. He is a young boy who wants to get the best education possible.
• Ngotho is Njoroge's father. He works hard to support his family.
• Nyokabi and Njeri are Ngotho's wives. Njeri is the first wife and mother to Boro, Kamau, and Kori. Nyokabi is the second wife and mother to Njoroge and Mwangi.
• Boro, Kamau, Kori, and Mwangi are Njoroge's brothers. Mwangi and Njoroge share the same mother and father. Mwangi sadly died during World War II.
• Mwikaki is Njoroge's good friend. As they get older, Njoroge starts to have a special liking for her.
• Jacobo is the chief of the village. He is also Mwikaki's father.
• Mr. Howlands is a white Englishman. He owns the land that once belonged to Ngotho's ancestors.

Key Themes in the Novel

Weep Not, Child explores several important ideas. It talks about traditional Kikuyu stories and the idea of African nationalism. Nationalism is when people feel a strong sense of pride and loyalty to their own country.

The novel also shows the harmful effects of colonialism and imperialism. Colonialism is when one country takes control of another country. Imperialism is when a powerful country extends its power over other lands.

Jomo Kenyatta, who later became the first prime minister of Kenya, is shown in the novel as a hero. Many people in the story see him as someone who can save their nation.