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You Will Love ‘Things I Will Tell My Daughter’ by Joan Thatiah

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I stumbled upon Joan Thatiah’s books on X. She wrote this elaborate thread on the life of a male sex worker. I loved her narration and I respected her craft. As a society that shuns even age-appropriate sex education, having writers humanize sex workers is a necessity. From then on, I fell in love with her work. I have had her books on my TBR list for close to a year.

This year I have been lucky to read Things I Will Tell My Daughter. Severally, people have said books find you. I do not believe it is true (mainly because I feel I’m behind in my reading and don’t need any excuse) but this specific book found me. Turning twenty-four feels like new womanhood. A new level of adulthood. The last year before my prefrontal cortex develops.

Baby fever imenitwanga this year, wacha tu! Because of this, I jumped to part 4 – Motherhood. The first chapter I read was, And the perfect time to have a baby is… In a well-written chapter, she reminds us it is okay to never want children, to plan for our pregnancies and only have kids for ourselves, and if you do keep an unplanned pregnancy nothing is wrong with you, understand it ain’t easy. Safe to say, the baby’s fever went down. I love the age I was born and raised in, millennial and Gen Z mums are more open to discussing the struggles of motherhood, openly. We can now make informed decisions.

Book Review

In part one – Womanhood, Joan Thatiah feels like a big sister: paving the way for you and reminding you where to step. She reminds us to be confident, to set boundaries, to read, to accept our bodies, to show up for ourselves, and to only honor the girl code when it makes sense.

Part two – Your Heart, felt like those late-night chats with your besties. The ones that end with promises to do better, be better, choose better partners… those nights when you have a heart-to-heart conversation. She dropped a bomb too: the butterfly feeling in your stomach can blind you to red flags in a relationship. She then reminds us, that when the honeymoon ends and the commitment phase of the relationship begins, there will be no more butterflies.

In part three – Your Money, she places femininity and money together. According to spirituality, femininity and money go hand in hand. But I have never seen them grouped career-wise. She narrates how they judged a colleague who dressed well and played the game (office politics) and now has an illustrious career. Growing up we had the cousins and aunties we were warned about. The rebellious ones. Part three felt like talking to this aunty. Sitting in her expensive home, sipping something, a long expensive-looking rob covering just the essential parts, probably reading a magazine. She stops reading and reminds you this is your life. She reminds you, that you’re a woman and you have been and will continue to be judged. She looks at your chest, tells you, you are growing, and gives you a lacey bra. Tells you red lipstick would look good on you and reminds you to read. She probably makes a shit load of money, only helps those she wishes, and drives “like a man”.

Would I read the book again? Yes! As I re-read the book, I will use the book as a journaling guide. In part three, I found certain statements triggered more than just an aha moment. I had to sit with them. For example, on page 111, she reminds us that this is a man’s world and we do not have to conform to how men get things done. I had to question how I was getting things done. Was I in alignment with who I was? Or was I performing for this world?

And as for my daughters, when I can afford to have one or two, will be reading this book. You should read it too!

Read: The Best Gifts For Writers

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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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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