KWARATA

About this Novel

KWARATA is a novel written by Jameela Musa that explores the life of a young girl named Faiza, who grew up in a dysfunctional family. Faiza's father is a divorced man who has married twenty-eight women, and he is currently married to four wives. Despite his numerous marriages, Faiza's father is a poor man and has no business other than being a "bite-bige." He is known for his ability to lie and his tendency to get into debt. Despite his poverty, he does not dress like a poor man, and he can easily deceive people into thinking he is wealthy. Faiza and her family have never had a plot of land to call their own. They have lived in so many neighborhoods that all the neighborhoods they stayed in are called Aunt Ratata's house or the house of many. Faiza's father is a heavy drinker and a gambler who spends all his money on gambling. When he doesn't have money to gamble, he drinks and hangs out at the local casinos. Faiza's father does not provide for his family, and he is not concerned about their health and wellbeing. Faiza's father's neglect has forced Faiza and her siblings to fend for themselves. Faiza's brothers have taken on jobs, but Faiza has resorted to prostitution.