From origin myths to tales of modern prostitutes in search of dignity - even for only one moment - these powerful stories by two of Africa's most renowned twentieth century authors explore African cultures at the intersection of tradition and modernity, colonialism and independence. Botswana's first lady of writing, Bessie Head, and East Africa's best known author, Ngugi wa Thiong'o, each use the politics and history of an Africa in the midst of change as the background for their compelling stories of characters who, like their countries, are in search of their identity. As part of that search, these two talented authors examine the uneasy coexistence created between men and women struggling when their individual natures and desires oppose societal expectations. Featuring Thiong'o's "Wedding at the Cross" and "Minutes of Glory" and Head's "'The Deep River" and "The Collector of Treasures", this anthology holds four beautifully crafted stories that show strong women who fight not only to survive but to succeed on their own terms, as they demand their right to marry or not, earn a living, and, most importantly, be respected.

Author Biography

Bessie Head (1937-1986) is considered Botswana's most important writer. She was born in South Africa but immigrated to Botswana. She is best known for her short story collection The Collector of Treasures and Other Botswana Village Tales, and her novels A Question of Power, Maru, and When Rain Clouds Gather. Ngugi wa Thiong'o (1938- )is a major Kenyan writer now living in the United States. He has taught at Yale and New York University. He is a Distinguished Professor of English and Comparative Literature as well as the Director of the International Center for Writing and Translation at the University of California, Irvine.