Facing Mount Kenya

I have read dozens of books about African Safaris and enjoy hunting books especially in an African setting from the late 1800's to mid 1900's. Most of those authors who spent a great deal of time with native African's always say they "understand the Africans" intimately.Comparing their observations with their conclusions it seemed to me that they did not really understand the natives. It took me awhile to find this book, but it is the definitive answer to my question; they dang sure didn't understand the natives.With all the world's problems today with "Tribes" all over the world I think this is a great place to start understanding what is meant by the word "Tribe." To many westerners, European or American it implies "Savage or unsophisticated" but this book will show you they are far more sophisticated than one might think.It is not a "page turner" by any means, but its not a Text Book either. It's well written and a wonderful read. Specific issues you will understand a great deal more after this book is female circumcision, and why Christianity's objection to polygamy pushes them toward the Muslim faith. This book was written in 1938. Maybe I missed it, but I didn't see that pointed out anywhere. So for perspective the Mau Mau uprising was roughly '52-'58 and the author became the first President of Kenya in '63.I read Martin Meredith's "The Fate of Africa" a few years ago and I'm actually thinking about re-reading it with a new perspective. Speaking of tough reads, that one is tough.

This study of the Kikuyu people by Kenya's first president is remarkable. It helped to establish a genre of localist writings on literature, history and philosophy that strive to outline the social landscapes of colonial communities. Facing Mount Kenya is an excellent anthropological study that defined the Kenyan national narrative. This short book gives valuable insight into the Kikuyu traditions and customs and denounces the arrogant and racist attitude of some colonial administrators. Although not easy to follow, Jomo Kenyatta's monograph is an important study for those interested in the country and Africa as a whole. Instead of being a "tribal" continent, Africa is more diverse and developed than many people assumed.

This book should be required reading for every citizen of the 21st century.It was written by a young man in 1937 describing and celebrating an advanced culture to a world that could not then and cannot now see beyond its own xenophobic narcissism.The fact that Kenyatta went on to become a scout and leader on the path from colonial subjugation towards a not yet achieved freedom is almost beside the point.

It is difficult to read. It is almost an ethnologic description. He goes into extensive description of the tribal life of Kenya without British interference. It gets to be too detailed, but overall one gets the feeling for Kenyan society.

This book gives a detailed look at how kenyans in general and the kikuyu in particular lived before the coming of the white man. The disruption of this way of life by the British. The sequence of events and the mindsets of the people that eventual led to the revolution war and eventual independence. Should be a must read for anybody who wants to understand the kenyans in general and kikuyus in particular.

I liked it. It was for my Traditional Religion learning.

Authentic, surprisingly objective and well written in English by a first generation college educated Kenyan. It's no surprise that he went on to become Kenya's first president following the end of colonial rule.I recommended it as a "must read" to anyone ready for a basic understanding of Kenyan "roots".

Good book for understanding the Gikuyu way of life before and after introduction to the western way of living

Most interesting to me is the chapter on magical practices and witchcraft; learning the difference between a medicine man and a witch doctor. Kenyatta gives a chilling description of the burning of a witch doctor as related by his grandfather who was a leading elder. Gikuyu society was complex and not understood by the British. No schools or hospitals existed in the accepted sense, but equally there was not an orphanage, old-age home or jail in sight. Law and order was regulated by fear of God and departed spirits and life was a series of rites of passage, ceremonies, sacrifices and rituals. A fascinating book by the LSE educated first President of Kenya.

Great book! and extremely serious seller and staff! Happy for the purchase! will be back at the first chance! thanks!

As described, arrived quickly, thanks!

great

Excellent