Wizard of the Crow by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o is an epic, satirical novel set in a fictitious postcolonial African country, where the venal exploits of "the Ruler" and his sycophantic ministers are portrayed. The narrative draws from oral storytelling traditions, focusing on the magical love story of Kamiti and Nyawira, who become a beacon of hope amidst the authoritarian regime. Topics include physical assault and political oppression.

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's Wizard of the Crow is lauded for its rich storytelling and incisive satire, blending magical realism with political commentary. Critics appreciate its imaginative scope and depth, though some note its extensive length can be challenging. Overall, it's a powerful, thought-provoking novel celebrated for its creativity and insight into contemporary African issues.

Fans of satirical, politically charged epics will relish Wizard of the Crow by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o. Similar to Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude and Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children, readers who appreciate magical realism, postcolonial narratives, and incisive social commentary will find this novel compelling.

Fictional African nation Aburiria / Contemporary

Mysterious / Fantastical / Dark / Humorous / Contemplative

- Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o wrote Wizard of the Crow in his native Gikuyu language and it was originally titled Murogi wa Kagogo before being translated into English by the author himself.
- The novel is a satirical fantasy that combines elements of magical realism with political commentary, drawing on the author's experiences and observations of post-colonial African societies.
- Wizard of the Crow was Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o’s first novel in over two decades, following a period of writing focused primarily on non-fiction and plays.

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Wizard of the Crow

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