Books & Film

World Book and Copyright Day: Read, Become a Better You

Published

8 months ago

April 23, 2024

The question often is, are you a reader? But the even bigger question is, why aren’t you a reader? Finding the time to sit down with a good book can seem like an impossible luxury with adulting and capitalism on the win. However, as we celebrate World Book and Copyright Day, it’s essential to reflect on the importance of reading and why it should be an integral part of your life. But, beyond that, we also spotlight Qwani, a foundation dedicated to promoting readership and providing a platform for young writers to get published, as it plays a crucial role in cultivating a reading culture among people.

Reading is not just about words on a page; it’s about expanding our horizons, exploring new worlds, and gaining valuable insights into the human experience. In a world where distractions are plentiful, books offer a sanctuary, a place where we can immerse ourselves in stories, ideas, and perspectives that enrich our lives. Lessons without unfortunately learning through experience.

One of the significant benefits of reading is that it enhances our emotional intelligence. Do you ever talk to someone who simply struggles to express their emotions? People who struggle with understanding your emotions? That’s how showy it is when you don’t read. When we read, we are exposed to a vast array of emotions, and we learn to understand and empathize with different perspectives. Books are the windows to the human soul. They enable us to experience emotions and situations that we may not encounter in our daily lives, thus increasing our emotional intelligence.

My biggest red flag in people is a lack of empathy, run away from people who are not empathetic. Reading is a gateway to empathy. When we read, we step into the shoes of characters from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. We learn to see the world through their eyes, fostering empathy and understanding. Through books, we can walk in someone else’s shoes, experiencing their joys, sorrows, and struggles. This fosters empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

But, if your excuse for not reading is volume and attention span, consider anthologies like Qwani. Keith Ang’ana addresses this by saying, “…but it is exactly that matter which we’re using to curate the book.”(talking about short attention spans) Qwani’s approach is to provide a diverse range of content, including stories as short as one page long and others as long as eleven pages. “One can, slowly by slowly, start by reading the shorter stories, and then, progressively, get to the longer stories, as they build up their reading capacity,” Keith Ang’ana suggests.

Qwani addresses this by providing a diverse array of content, all under one roof. “We have Poetry, we have Short Stories, we have Philosophy, we have Science, we have Sheng stories, and we also have reviews about Film and Music,” Keith Ang’ana explains. “Furthermore, they are spread out in the book, such that, at no point in time will you cross over from one piece to another both of the same genre or same theme. This, then, helps in making it colourful and diverse, alleviating the initial boredom that encumbers people from reading longer works.”

For anyone trying to get back to reading books, I suggest anthologies like Qwani

As we celebrate World Book and Copyright Day, let’s remember the immense value of reading. Through books, we can expand our horizons, cultivate empathy, and sharpen our minds. If you are writer, please continue to paint the world with your words, and for the readers, may we always find solace in books. With initiatives like Qwani, we have the opportunity not only to enjoy the benefits of reading but also to contribute to a culture of readership that enriches lives and communities. “Qwani is a foundation pushing for more readership by providing young writers with a platform to get published. We’re also aiming to cultivate a reading culture among people,” Keith Ang’ana concludes. And I am happy to watch Qwani soar and achieve this dream.

Qwani-ni hauna copy? Grab yourself the second edition of Qwani’s anthology here.

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Books & Film

Celebrated Author Joan Thatiah Releases Her 10th Book: A Powerful Tribute To Nairobi Men’s Voices

Published

1 month ago

November 21, 2024

Murugi Gichovi

Celebrated Kenyan author Joan Thatiah has reached a major milestone in her literary journey with the release of her 10th book, Confessions of Nairobi Men: Book Two.

Known for her ability to craft raw and relatable stories, Thatiah continues to explore the intricacies of love, life, and humanity, delving into the untold narratives of everyday people.

“This book is as much yours as it is mine,” Thatiah shared with her readers. “Thank you for being part of this journey. It has been an honor to listen to these stories and bring them to life.”

Priced at Ksh 1,450, Confessions of Nairobi Men: Book Two has already hit the shelves and promises readers a deep dive into the lives and confessions of Nairobi’s men. Through these personal and sometimes vulnerable accounts, Thatiah offers a mirror reflecting the culture, challenges, and shared humanity of the city.

With a decade-long literary career, Thatiah’s journey has remained as authentic as the day she began. “Ten books in, and it all feels just as raw and real as it did on day one,” she said. “Each story is a lesson, shaped by the bold voices of Nairobi men who have shared their truths.”

Her works, which include titles such as Confessions of Nairobi Women: Book One, Confessions of Nairobi Women: Book Two, Guilty: A Novel, Everything I Know About Life, and I’m Too Pretty to Be Broke and Other Lies You’ve Been Telling Yourself, have solidified her reputation as one of Kenya’s most influential contemporary authors.

Through her writing, Thatiah continues to amplify the voices of men and women alike, telling stories that resonate deeply with her readers. Confessions of Nairobi Men: Book Two is not just a book—it’s a testament to Nairobi’s spirit, capturing the essence of its people and their shared experiences.

Whether you’re new to Joan Thatiah’s work or a longtime fan, this latest release is sure to leave you reflecting on life, love, and the complexities of human connection.

Books & Film

“Zoza”: A Story of Loyalty, Betrayal, and Redemption

Published

1 month ago

November 20, 2024

Muinde Brian

If you enjoy Kenyan films, you are in for a treat with AngaIMAX about to unveil an electrifying tale with Zoza the film, premiering on 23rd November 2024 at Anga Cinemas, Diamond Plaza II. Directed by Ian Michael ‘Chief’ and produced by Yvette Gisebe, this gripping drama will take you on an emotional journey through the gritty streets of Nairobi, where loyalty, survival, and the quest for redemption intertwine.

The film revolves around Monty, a young man grappling with his past and the lure of his former life. After spending four years in juvenile prison, Monty is offered a controversial deal by Officer Bett—a shot at freedom in exchange for infiltrating his old gang and collecting evidence to take them down. With half a million shillings as bait, Monty accepts, but it’s a decision that forces him to navigate dangerous waters.

In his pursuit, Monty reconnects with Mo, his fiery love interest and the heart of his old crew. Mo is a woman of strength, fiercely protective of her brother Tony. Their chemistry adds depth to the story, especially as Mo’s discovery of Monty’s mission stirs tension and suspicion within the group. Things take a dramatic turn when betrayal emerges from within—Ousman, a gang member, leaks Monty’s plans to Kizito, a ruthless criminal Monty is tasked with exposing-. What happens next you’ll have to buy a ticket and find out.

What sets Zoza apart is its layered storytelling. The stakes are amplified when we learn that Officer Bett has his own murky motives, entangled in a blackmail scheme with Kunta, Kizito’s rival. This dual narrative leaves Monty torn between doing what’s right and protecting himself. What do you think you would do?

With a powerful cast featuring Michael Njihia, Chadota, and Michael Ndaka, and a striking score by Soup and Salad, Zoza promises to keep you on the edge of your seats. It’s more than just a thriller—it’s a reflection on the costs of redemption and the resilience needed to rise above one’s circumstances.

Prepare for an unforgettable cinematic experience as Zoza dives deep into the complexities of crime, love, and the price of freedom. Don’t miss the premiere—it’s set to leave a mark on Kenya’s film industry.

Books & Film

MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR IN CINEMAS THIS NOVEMBER!!!!!

Published

2 months ago

November 4, 2024

KANYINA MITCHELLE

November is closing spooky season and beginning Christmas early with holiday movies and more. Do not miss out on this exciting adventure. Get yourself some popcorns and let’s dive in to what the cinemas have to offer this month:

1. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Will Be Released On November 8, 2024

Six juvenile delinquent siblings who inadvertently find themselves participating in the local church pageant during the holidays unleash chaos but they might just teach a shocked community the true meaning of Christmas.

2.Heretic

Will Be Released On November 8, 2024

Heretic is a horror thriller of two young missionaries who try to convert Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant). However, the mission takes a sinister turn as Mr. Reed is actually far more dangerous than they could have anticipated. Will their faith help them make it out alive?

3.Small Things Like These

Will Be Released On November 8, 2024

Cillian Murphy is back after his previous movie Oppenheimer which hit the cinemas last year! Let’s take a look at what he has to offer this year.

Bill Furlong (Cillian Murphy), a coal merchant living next to a convent. Furlong ends up discovering the dark secrets and disturbing things that happen inside the convent, leading him to confront the secrets of the Irish town of New Ross.

4.Red One

Will Be Released On November 10, 2024

Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans star in this christmas comedy film where Dwayne Johnson head of security of the North Pole, and Chris Evans the infamous hacker and bounty hunter team up to save Santa Claus who has been kidnapped. Will they save him on time to save Christmas altogether?

5.Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point

Will Be Released On November 15, 2024

A family gathers on Christmas Eve for what could be the last holiday in their ancestral home. As the night wears on and tensions arise, one of the teenagers sneaks out with her friends to claim the wintry suburb for her own.

6.Gladiator II

Will Be Released On November 22, 2024

With rage in Lucius’ heart and the future of the empire at stake, he looks to the past to find the strength and honor needed to return the glory of Rome to its people. Will he succeed? Let’s find out.

7.Wicked

Will Be Released On November 22, 2024

Wicked tells the story of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who has been misunderstood due to her green skin her whole life, but she forms a profound friendship with Glinda (Ariana Grande), who longs for popularity. Their relationship soon reaches a crossroad as their lives begin to take very different paths.

8.Moana 2

Will Be Released On November 27, 2024

Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) reunites with the demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson), and along with her crew, they go into the far seas of Oceania to break the curse of the god Nalo on the hidden island of Motufetu.