To Stir the Heart

From origin myths to tales of modern prostitutes in search of dignity—even for only a moment—these powerful stories by two renowned African authors explore the uneasy coexistence between women and men, tradition and modernity. They show strong women demanding their right to marry or not, earn a living, and most importantly, be respected.

South African-born Bessie Head (1937–1986) immigrated to Botswana, where she is considered their most important writer.

Ngugi wa Thiong’o is a major Kenyan writer now living in the United States. He teaches and directs an international writing center at the University of California, Irvine.