Excerpted From Kintu: A Masterpiece of Ugandan Literature That Will Leave You Begging for More

In the bustling city of Kampala, Uganda, a literary masterpiece has emerged from the depths of African storytelling. "Kintu," written by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, has taken the literary world by storm and captivated readers with its rich narrative, powerful characters, and evocative portrayal of Ugandan history. This novel is a fascinating tapestry of love, loss, ancestor spirits, and the timeless quest for identity.

Set in the late 1700s, "Kintu" delves into the lives of several generations of the Kintu clan, exploring their struggles, triumphs, and the specter of a curse that haunts their family. At its core, the novel grapples with the themes of colonialism, tradition, and the impact of history on the present. It takes readers on a journey through time and space, seamlessly blending mythology, folklore, and real-world events.

The clickbait title above may have intrigued you, but the true beauty of "Kintu" lies within its pages. The novel offers a fresh perspective on African literature, pushing boundaries and challenging preconceived notions. Its vivid imagery and lyrical prose transport the reader to the heart of Uganda, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and smells of the country.

Come With Us: Excerpted from KINTU (Electric Literature's Recommended Reading Book 261)

by RW Holmen(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1058 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	20 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A Metaphorical Playground

Makumbi's writing style in "Kintu" is nothing short of extraordinary. She weaves a complex web of metaphors, creating a deeply layered narrative that demands to be savored. The language is both poetic and accessible, striking a perfect balance between the ethereal and the relatable.

"Kintu" is a melting pot of Ugandan history, mythology, and folklore. Makumbi seamlessly integrates these elements into the story, enriching the narrative and giving it a sense of cultural depth. The inclusion of luganda phrases and cultural practices adds authenticity and contributes to the immersive experience of reading the novel.

The characters in "Kintu" are vividly drawn, with both their strengths and flaws laid bare. From Kintu himself, a man tormented by guilt, to Suubi, a strong-willed woman determined to break free from societal constraints, Makumbi's characters are complex and multidimensional. The reader becomes emotionally invested in their stories, rooting for their triumphs and feeling their pain.

A Journey Through Time and Space

"Kintu" spans centuries and continents, taking the reader on a sweeping journey that combines the personal with the political. The novel delves into Uganda's troubled past, examining the impact of colonization and the lasting scars it has left on the nation.

Through the story of the Kintu clan, Makumbi tackles universal themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning. The reader is confronted with questions of heritage and ancestry, forcing them to contemplate their own place in the world.

But "Kintu" is not simply a historical novel. It is a story that resonates with readers on a deeply human level. It is about love, loss, family, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul. It is a reminder that no matter the time or place, our struggles and triumphs are ultimately what connect us as human beings.

Impact on African Literature

"Kintu" has received widespread critical acclaim and has been hailed as a landmark in Ugandan and African literature. Makumbi's unique voice and storytelling prowess have catapulted her onto the international stage, earning her a place among the great contemporary writers.

The novel has also sparked a renaissance in Ugandan literature, inspiring a new generation of writers to explore their own cultural heritage and tell their stories. Makumbi's success has shattered stereotypes and challenged the notion that African literature is limited in scope or relevance.

, "Kintu" is an extraordinary work of literature that deserves to be celebrated. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universality of human experiences. Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi has crafted a masterpiece that will leave you spellbound, yearning for more.

Come With Us: Excerpted from KINTU (Electric Literature's Recommended Reading Book 261)

by RW Holmen(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1058 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	20 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

"Divided into six sections, Kintu begins with a murder in present-day Kampala before returning to 1750, when Kintu Kidda sets out for the capital to pledge allegiance to the new leader of the Buganda Kingdom. Along the way, he unleashes a curse that will follow his family for generations. Weaving together the stories of Kintu’s descendants, Makumbi has written a sweeping saga that’s bound to be a modern classic." - Adam Z. and Ashley Nelson Levy

About the Author: Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, a Ugandan novelist and short story writer, has a PhD from Lancaster University. Her first novel, Kintu, won the Kwani? Manuscript Project in 2013 and was longlisted for the Etisalat Prize in 2014. Her story “Let’s Tell This Story Properly” won the 2014 Commonwealth Short Story Prize. She is currently working on her second novel and a collection of short stories, Travel is to See, Return is to Tell. Jennifer lives in Manchester, UK with her husband, Damian, and her son, Jordan.

About the Guest Editor: Transit Books is a nonprofit publisher of international and American literature, based in Oakland, California. Founded in 2015, Transit Books is committed to the discovery and promotion of enduring works that carry readers across borders and communities.

About the Publisher: Electric Literature is an independent publisher amplifying the power of storytelling through digital innovation. Electric Literature’s weekly fiction magazine, Recommended Reading, invites established authors, indie presses, and literary magazines to recommended great fiction. Once a month we feature our own recommendation of original, previously unpublished fiction. Recommended Reading is supported by the Amazon Literary Partnership, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. For other links from Electric Literature, follow us, or sign up for our eNewsletter.