Book Review: Lalji’s Nairobi, by Nitin Nanji

Available from Amazon UK and Amazon US

British Gujarat, 1905: Despairing of the social injustices and crippling taxes under the British Raj, Lalji, 19, flees to British East Africa hoping to build a better life using his natural business skills and acumen. But he soon finds unexpected dangers in his new home- turbulent politics and war with German East Africa- as well as some surprising opportunities. A combination of luck, coincidence, and his flair for commerce 

lead to early success.

This is more than a coming of age journey. Although Lalji's Nairobi is both of those in the literal sense, with births, marriages and deaths, Nitin Nanji includes a compelling exploration of the social, cultural, economic and political complexity of Nairobi.

I spent my childhood in Kenya, and can confirm Lalji's Nairobi evokes the authentic essence of the foundation of the city. From fingerless lepers on street corners to ‘Pembo’, the ‘askari’ (watchman) with the long coat and ‘knobkerry’ (wooden club) protecting us through the night, this book brings back so many memories.

I particularly liked the use of Indian and Swahili words and phrases (with English in brackets) which reveal a fascinating insight into the lives and adventures of the four ‘brothers’ .

The inherent racism is handled sensitively, and the lead character Lalji is likeable and relatable. Authentic, evocative and intriguing, I am happy to award Lalji's Nairobi a well-deserved five out of five stars.

Tony Riches

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About the Author

Nitin Nanji is an historical novelist of Indian parentage, born and raised in Kenya, educated in England, writing about India and East Africa under the British Empire. Nitin has come to writing his debut novel after retiring as a doctor. Born in Kenya before its independence he came to England at the age of fifteen. His parentage is Indian, his grandfather having moved during the British Raj from Gujarat in India to Colonial East Africa as an economic migrant. 'Lalji's Nairobi' is now an award-winning novel that recently won acclaim from the prestigious New Generation Indie Book Awards as a 'Finalist'. It also earned Five Stars and the 'Highly Recommended' award of excellence from The Historical Fiction Company, which has recently also awarded the book with a silver medal in the Blixen Africa Category. Find out more from Nitin's website: www.nitinnanji.com