Book review for the novel, 'Yes, I Am With Us!'

Book Title: Yes, I Am With Us
Author: Rosemary Mugera
Publisher: Elong’o Publishers
Year of Publication: 2024
Pages: 107
Reviewer: Peris Wambui

Yes, I Am With Us! by Rosemary Mugera is a poignant novella that explores the complexities of love, cultural differences, and betrayal.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Kenyan culture, the story follows the highs and lows of a relationship that begins with hope but ends in heartbreak.

Mugera’s clever use of humour, local dialects, and street language adds a relatable charm, making it a delightful read for young people and lovers of contemporary literature.

Love across cultures

The novella tells the story of a couple from different cultural backgrounds: a Luhya woman, Nekesa, and a Kamba man, Mutiso. Their love story begins when Nekesa, recovering from a road accident, is cared for by Mutiso. The two fall in love and eventually marry.

Life seems promising, especially after the birth of their first child. Nevertheless, things take a turn when the wife gets a promotion that requires her to relocate to Meru.

Left behind, the husband rekindles a relationship with his ex-girlfriend, betraying the trust in their marriage. Heartbroken, the wife returns to her village and seeks the guidance of her father.

The climax unfolds when the husband arrives in Luhya land, accompanied by his mistress, leading to the ultimate breakup of their marriage.

Themes of betrayal and resilience

The author masterfully captures the challenges faced by intertribal couples, skillfully weaving cultural nuances into the narrative. The characters are relatable and well-developed, with the wife embodying strength and resilience, while the husband reflects the frailty of human relationships.

The use of humour and local dialect adds authenticity to the story, immersing the reader in the cultural setting. Mugera’s inclusion of Gen Z slang enhances the story’s relatability, especially for younger audiences, and gives it a fresh, modern feel.

Questions about trust

However, the novella also raises deeper questions about trust, loyalty, and the sacrifices required to maintain a relationship. The story is fast-paced, which keeps the reader engaged, but some parts of the plot—such as the husband’s betrayal—could have been explored more deeply to provide greater emotional weight.

Yes, I Am With Us! is an engaging and thought-provoking novella that highlights the fragility of relationships when faced with cultural and personal challenges.

Mugera’s writing style, rich in humour and local flavour, makes the book a pleasure to read. It is particularly well-suited for young adults and anyone interested in stories that delve into love, betrayal, and resilience.

The book is highly recommendable for literature lovers, especially fans of contemporary African literature and culturally rich storytelling.