H&S Magazine’s Recommended Book Of The Week

A GIRL IS A BODY OF WATER by By Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi

Genre: Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Cultural

 

An Unconventional Upbringing

Kirabo has been raised by a mosaic of maternal figures, including her grandmother, her best friend, and a constellation of aunts. Yet, the specter of her mother, shrouded in mystery, remains elusive. Seeking solace and answers, Kirabo turns to Nsuuta, the local witch, whose revelations unfold a tale of the woman who brought her into this world. A mother who is alive but not yet prepared to meet her daughter.

 

The Emergence of a Hidden Self

Nsuuta unravels another enigma—the existence of a second self within Kirabo. This headstrong and enigmatic presence, often referred to as the “first woman,” is a remnant of an independent and original state, nearly lost to generations of women. Kirabo’s journey, a blend of folklore and introspection, unearths this hidden self while she strives to bridge the chasm between her longing for her mother and the weight of familial expectations.

Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi envelops readers in Uganda’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a glimpse into its folklore, traditions, and the profound influence they hold over the lives of its women. Kirabo’s story is a captivating exploration of modern girlhood, a narrative that grapples with the forces seeking to stifle women’s voices in a changing world.

 

“A Girl Is A Body of Water” is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women. It reveals the intricate bonds between history, tradition, family, friendship, and the promise of a brighter future. In this tale, Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi captures the essence of womanhood and identity with striking honesty and tenderness.

 

About The Author

Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi

Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi is a storyteller whose narrative prowess has earned her accolades. Winner of the Jhalak Prize, her writing is celebrated for its depth and authenticity, offering readers a window into the lives of characters who grapple with profound questions of self and belonging.

 

“A Girl Is A Body of Water” is more than a coming-of-age story; it’s a testament to the enduring bonds that shape a person’s identity. It urges us to ponder the intricate threads of our own lives, woven by the hands of the women who have touched us, and to embrace the promise of a world where women’s voices are celebrated, not silenced.

 

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