On September 8, 2023, Netflix Kenya took to Twitter to ask Kenyans which Kenyan book they would like to see adapted into a film.
The question was posed in honor of International Literacy Day, which is celebrated every year on September 8th to raise awareness of the importance of literacy.
The tweet quickly went viral, with Kenyans from all over the country sharing their thoughts. Some of the most popular choices included:
- “My Life as a Criminal” by John Kiriamiti: This autobiographical novel tells the story of Kiriamiti’s life as a gang leader in Nairobi. It is a gripping and suspenseful tale that has been praised for its insights into the criminal underworld.
- “Kill Me Quick” by Meja Mwangi: This novel tells the story of a young man who is forced to join a gang in order to survive. It is a powerful and moving story that has been praised for its realism.
- “Coming to Birth” by Marjorie Oludhe: This novel tells the story of a young woman who struggles to come to terms with her sexuality. It is a sensitive and nuanced story that has been praised for its insights into gender and sexuality.
- “Across the Bridge” by Ngugi wa Thiong’o: This novel tells the story of a young man who is forced to leave his rural home and move to the city. It is a coming-of-age story that has been praised for its insights into the challenges of urbanization.
- “My Life with a Criminal” by John Kiriamiti: This sequel to “My Life as a Criminal” tells the story of Kiriamiti’s life after he is released from prison. It is a story of redemption and hope that has been praised for its message of resilience.
- “Kifo Kisimani” by Binyavanga Wainaina: This short story collection tells the stories of ordinary Kenyans living through extraordinary times. It is a powerful and moving collection that has been praised for its insights into the Kenyan experience.
- “Siku Njema” by Ken Walibora: This novel tells the story of a young man who is struggling to make ends meet in Nairobi. It is a heartwarming story that has been praised for its humor and its insights into the challenges of life in the city.
- “Kiu” by Mohammed S. Mohammed: This novel tells the story of a young man who is struggling to survive in the drought-stricken Kenyan countryside. It is a powerful and moving story that has been praised for its insights into the effects of climate change.
- “Daughter of Maa” by Henry R. Ole Kulet: This novel tells the story of a young Maasai woman who is forced to choose between her traditional way of life and the modern world. It is a powerful and moving story that has been praised for its insights into the challenges of cultural identity.
- “Matigari ma Njugiri” by Ngugi wa Thiong’o: This novel tells the story of a young man who sets out to find his place in the world after the overthrow of the Kenyan government. It is a powerful and moving story that has been praised for its insights into the struggle for freedom and justice.
Netflix Kenya has not yet announced whether it will adapt any of these books into films. However, the response from Kenyans on Twitter suggests that there is a strong appetite for Kenyan stories on the big screen.
The question of which Kenyan book should be adapted into a film is a difficult one to answer. There are many great Kenyan books to choose from, and each one has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the decision of which book to adapt should be made by the filmmakers, who will need to consider the budget, the target audience, and the creative vision for the film.
