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
A pleasure to post this !
ReplyDeleteWHAT AN EXCITING WRITER!!
ReplyDeleteWell done Lady. I understand you have published over 20 books!!
ReplyDeleteIt's always a gladdening and exhilarating process to know about literary activists all over, especially in Africa, and its women! Essentially the world of literature goes along with real passion and selflessness - which a few individuals have in spades. One does not really expect the fairer sex to love books or writing so much especially in modern times (and one is not being patronising). Hence in recent times in southern Africa the likes of younger black women like Charmaine Kolwane and Matshidiso Taleng are highly respected for their passion, love and sacrifice for the world of literature. Quite rightly, their literary legacy is assured and bright, even for future generations. As for Mme Dora here, there is no doubt that she belongs in such company too - a gold-plated black female literary activist and author.
ReplyDeleteIt's always a gladdening and exhilarating process to know about literary activists all over, especially in Africa, and its women! Essentially the world of literature goes along with real passion and selflessness - which a few individuals have in spades. One does not really expect the fairer sex to love books or writing so much especially in modern times (and one is not being patronising). Hence in recent times in southern Africa the likes of younger black women like Charmaine Kolwane and Matshidiso Taleng are highly respected for their passion, love and sacrifice for the world of literature. Quite rightly, their literary legacy is assured and bright, even for future generations. As for Mme Dora here, there is no doubt that she belongs in such company too - a gold-plated black female literary activist and author.
ReplyDeleteQuite interesting lady. Read some of the reviews of her work on Internet
ReplyDeleteI like the charming, concise somewhat whimsical way she is often introduced on the 'net, 'Dora is wandering somewhere along the shores of Lake Victoria...'
ReplyDeleteWhat else is there to say? Monsieur Lothane has put it superbly here! The lady is a credit to Africa.
ReplyDelete(chuckling) I concur. I myself love literature et al, but I am nothing compared to Dora. I have been trying to write just one book for over a decade now!
ReplyDeleteApparently Dora Okeya has reviewed hundreds of books??? How can this be humanly possible? No doubt she lives and breathes literature…
ReplyDeleteLaudable lady, laudable approach to literature. Has a wide vista really. And how old is she anyway?
ReplyDeleteI am rather old fashioned so I love the atmosphere and (physical) feel and touch of books, at libraries really. Writers are so important. But I understand that there are now e-books in the modern era, and this might well be the future of reading, especially among the younger generation. I think many of Dora's books are e-books? Anyway she has done - and continues - to do very well.
ReplyDeleteThis is evidence of true talent, and of course zeal and enthusiasm ... a delight for those who love literature and reading
ReplyDeleteJolly good. Keep up the good Work.
ReplyDeleteAfrican Women writers are so talented. From the days of Flora Nwapa, Bessie Head, Miriam Tlali,Tsitsi Dangarembga, Mabel Segun, Futhi Ntshingila, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie etc...One gets excited to read about such wordsmiths
ReplyDeleteYour hard work and resilience will pay off finally not for any other reason but because you are good. Keep the creative juices flowing.
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