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A New Dawn? ‘His Only Wife’ by Peace Adzo Book Review

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Imagine this, after dad passes on, your meanest uncle takes over your father’s house. With your mum struggling to keep you in school, an aunt offers to help. Years later your mom breaks the news that you are to wed the aunt’s son. It wasn’t a question or suggestion, a decision had already been made. Can you say no? How dare you ignore her commands, how dare you come back home when she gave you everything? So you do it, you even sire a son. But one day you bump into a woman so beautiful, her child and her husband. Your Husband…

Peace Adzo Medie did a spending job keeping me glued. I finished the book in a week (the crowd cheers). I knew the ending would be a sad or an angry one. I did not wish any of the women to end up hurt but pain is inevitable.

A very naïve protagonist

Are we finally writing protagonists that ‘fail’, that anger us, that make us question why they are in the book or did I just discover these types of books? One of the achievements modern fiction (new authors) have achieved is breaking this trend. Of course, everyone expected a win for the protagonist but, this type of win is rarely seen. I believe we, the society, are now more welcoming of different paths in life. We understand that divorce is normal, we understand that not marrying is normal. The world does not stop.

Narcissists do not do well with boundaries and they will ruin our lives. Afi is married to Elikem to soothe the ego of his mother. Elikem’s mother did not approve of her son marrying a woman she could not control. So, she finds the next best option, a poor seamstress who has been at her mercy. At least this way she has control over part of her son’s love life.

As literature reflects society, is it safe to say we are now okay with ‘letting’ women live their lives as they see fit? Is it safe to say although the older generation is not okay with women living life on their terms, they are willing to adjust, like Afi’s mum did? Are we finally comfortable with people leaving situations that no longer serve them? Situations such as women staying for the kids and the money? Is this the new dawn we have been waiting for?

Who should read this book?

  1. Someone looking for a distraction. ‘His Only Wife’ was an interesting read, a nice treat before retiring to bed.
  2. You! You should read the book and let me know how you find it in the comments.

Read: Things I Will Tell My Daughter by Joan Thatiah

Books & Film

Best Henry Cavill Films to Watch (And Maybe Fix the Weather)

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Ever since The Witcher got a recast and Henry Cavill hung up his swords, something feels off. Maybe it’s the grey clouds or the chill in the air. Whatever it is, we can all agree the world hasn’t been the same. But there’s a solution—a Henry Cavill movie marathon. Watching enough of his roles might just restore balance. From action-packed blockbusters to charming historical dramas, here are 10 films where Cavill’s undeniable talent shines.


1. Man of Steel (2013)

Awards: MTV Movie Award for Best Hero (nominee)
It’s impossible to talk about Henry Cavill without mentioning Man of Steel, where he donned the iconic cape and took flight as Superman. Cavill brings a perfect mix of humanity and power to the role, making it one of his most beloved performances. Whether it’s his quiet moments as Clark Kent or his epic battles as Superman, this film set the tone for Cavill’s portrayal of the superhero in future DC films.

2. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Cavill returns as Superman, and this time, he’s facing off against the Dark Knight himself, whats there more to say? Though controversial, this film delivered some of the most intense superhero clashes, and Cavill’s take on a more conflicted, world-weary Superman added depth to the character. Love it or hate it, you can’t deny the visual spectacle.

3. The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)

Looking for something a little more stylish? The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is Cavill at his suave best. Playing CIA agent Napoleon Solo, Cavill oozes charm and wit alongside Armie Hammer in this action-packed yet light-hearted spy thriller. It’s got 60s espionage vibes, great fashion, and Cavill in sharp suits—what more could you want?

4. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)

Awards: Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Action Movie (Nominee)
Cavill’s turn as August Walker in Mission: Impossible – Fallout is nothing short of thrilling. Teaming up with (and later going head-to-head against) Tom Cruise, Cavill proves he’s got the chops to hang in one of the best action franchises out there. Plus, who can forget that iconic bathroom fight scene? Cavill’s moustache may have sparked controversy elsewhere (Justice League cough), but here it’s all part of the charm.

5. Enola Holmes (2020)

Playing Sherlock Holmes in Enola Holmes was a delightful surprise. Cavill brings a more laid-back and affable approach to the famous detective, letting Millie Bobby Brown’s Enola shine while still commanding the screen in his own right. It’s a charming film with a fresh take on the Holmes universe, and Cavill’s chemistry with Brown is spot-on.

6. Immortals (2011)

Before he became Superman, Cavill took on the role of Theseus in Immortals, a visually stunning epic about Greek mythology. Directed by Tarsem Singh, this film is a feast for the eyes with its striking visuals and intense action. Cavill’s portrayal of the heroic Theseus showcases his early action-star potential, battling gods and monsters with gusto.

7. Justice League (2017) / Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)

Awards: Razzie Award for Worst Remake (Justice League), Redemption with Snyder Cut
While the original Justice League had its issues, the 2021 Snyder Cut gave fans what they’d been waiting for—a more fleshed-out and powerful Superman arc. Cavill’s portrayal was more rounded and heroic in this version, offering redemption for the character and the actor alike. If you’ve been curious about the infamous Snyder Cut, it’s definitely worth the 4-hour runtime.

8. Night Hunter (2018)

In Night Hunter, Cavill steps away from the superhero world to play a more grounded role as Detective Marshall, trying to catch a dangerous serial killer. It’s a darker, grittier role that shows his versatility as an actor. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Cavill’s intense performance stands out.


Honourable Mention: The Witcher (2019-2023)
While it’s not a film, we can’t forget Cavill’s turn as Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher. His dedication to the role, both in terms of the physicality and his deep knowledge of the lore, made him a fan favourite. Although the recast looms, Cavill’s portrayal of the White Wolf remains legendary.


So, whether you’re craving some superhero action, spy drama, or fantasy adventures, Henry Cavill has you covered. Each of these films showcases a different side of his acting range, and who knows—if we watch just enough Henry Cavill, the weather might just stop acting up.

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A Story of Resilience in The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré

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If you love a story with heart and determination, you’re going to want to get to know Adunni, the young protagonist of this novel. She’s a 14-year-old Nigerian girl who’s stuck in circumstances beyond her control, but what sets her apart is her fierce desire to get an education and make something of herself. That’s where the title comes in—Adunni is determined to find her “louding voice,” which is her way of saying she wants to speak up for herself and be heard.

The book is written in Adunni’s broken English, which might take a minute to get used to, but it quickly becomes one of the most endearing parts of the story. It feels like you’re right there with her, experiencing her world firsthand. And trust me, her world isn’t easy. She faces all sorts of challenges, from being sold into marriage to working as a servant in a wealthy household. But no matter what, she keeps her dream of getting an education alive.

One of the things that makes this book so special is how it balances such heavy themes—child marriage, servitude, and inequality—with Adunni’s unshakable hope and optimism. You can’t help but root for her as she fights to break free from the life others have chosen for her.

It’s also a deeply emotional read. There are moments when you’ll feel angry on her behalf, but there are also moments of joy and hope that shine through. Adunni’s journey is a reminder of the power of education, and how one person’s determination can make a difference, not just for themselves, but for their community.

Overall, The Girl with the Louding Voice is an uplifting and powerful read that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a story of resilience and the importance of finding your own voice, no matter how many obstacles stand in your way. A story you’ve heard before but not like this, a blend of fiction with facts that give it better context than you’d anticipate.

Have you read it yet? If not, I’d highly recommend giving it a go!

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Books & Film

The Waiting Room: A satirical play by Igiza Arts.

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Whenever someone mentions theatre plays, my mind rushes back to my embarrassing situation. In form 3, void of hobbies and dying to be anywhere else but school, I auditioned for a place in the music festival plays. Not only did I not make the first cut,  but also failed to project my voice. That day my voice box failed and in turn, I carry such great respect for theater actors and plays. Plays were my forte back in high school. All this to say, I’m back, in love with theatre and plays and the message.

A lot has happened to us (Kenyans) in 2024, and since art is the mirror in which society checks itself, Igiza Arts presents a satirical drama “The Waiting Room”.

The Waiting Room is a play written by  Playwright Martin Abuya and produced by Arnold Mandu. As we tweet #paydoctors and #occupyMOH, we know sometimes, our healthcare system is flawed.

Martin Abuya uses humour to address issues in our healthcare system and family fabric. “Through ‘The Waiting Room,’ I hope to highlight the challenges faced by both healthcare workers and patients in Kenya. It’s a reflection of our reality, delivered with a mix of satire and heart,” said Martin.

The talented cast includes Kennedy Kithia, Lisa, Jeff Obonyo, Vanessa Gichio, Edna Kariuki, Muthoni Njoki, Harold Kerry, Lydia Mamati, Prince Kamselele, Linda Kamuri, Sammy Waweru. Edna Kariuki and Lydia Mamati as the stage managers.

Igiza Arts Production a renowned production house, has continuously pushed the boundaries of Kenyan theatre, fostering a deeper appreciation for the performing arts, and providing a platform for artists. They aim to produce and showcase thought-provoking, impactful theatrical works. Earlier this year, they produced Severed Justice, a play on police brutality as experienced in the #RejectFinanceBill protest. The show was a success.

They have also produced shows such as The Ideal Husband, Law & Behold, Sins& Secrets, and Don’t Dress for Dinner.

The show premiers on September 7th and 8th 2024, at 3 pm and 6 pm on both days. Where? Kenya National Theater. What should you bring? Handkerchiefs, you might laugh… or cry! Tickets are available

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