By
I. Mzwandile Soqaga (South Africa)
When we think of Kenyan Literature our minds often
automatically go to outstanding writers like Ngugi wa Thiong'o, Meja Mwangi,
David Maillu.
All men? Yes. But then again there are revered
female literary voices from the country, like Grace Ogot. And in recent times
we have new female voices from Kenya like the outstanding DORA OKEYO.
Dora is a quintessential bibliophile, a prolific
reader, writer, review et al. Some have dubbed her as a one-woman literary
industry. And it is not even an exaggeration.
She had published many books herself- see a
selection of her works at the end. She writes on many genres. She might remind
you of Walter Scott because of her penchant for historical writings.
She also writes a lot for children. In South Africa the likes of Gcina Mhlophe
are revered for this; just like Mabel Segun in west Africa. So Dora is in good
company!
Dora’s sheer enthusiasm and passion for the world of
writing is extraordinary (to put it mildly). She regularly performs endearing
services to Literature (including African Writing) by presenting and reviewing
sundry books for the literary world.
What a lady!
A Selection of Dora Okeyo's Books
Water
I love you This Much
Fire
Choose Me
Say You Love Me
Memories
Roses and Lies
Sifuna
Earth
The Crown of the Sea
You and I