A Grain of Wheat

"A Grain of Wheat" is a novel by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o set in Kenya during the late colonial period. It explores themes of betrayal, identity, and independence through the story of villagers preparing for Kenya's independence and a character returning home after years abroad. The narrative reveals personal and collective struggles, highlighting the complex emotions and moral dilemmas faced during a time of profound societal change. The novel uses symbolic imagery—such as a single grain of wheat—to represent sacrifice, unity, and the potential for renewal within a community.