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SON OF THE SOIL: A PLAY BY HILLARY SHIKOKOTI
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BALLOT FOR THE BULLET: A PLAY BY HILLARY SHIKOKOTI
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Nuria Ranking: #3 in Plays, PlayscriptsIn stock
The Ballot for the Bullet is a reflection of the fragile line that exists between democracy and chaos, between hope and destruction, and between choice and consequence.
This play was inspired by the recurring reality in many African societies where elections, meant to symbolize peace, unity, and progress, often become catalysts for division and violence. In such moments, the youth—who should be the architects of tomorrow—are frequently turned into instruments of destruction by those in power.
Through the character of Kamau, I explore the internal conflict faced by many young people: the struggle between survival and integrity, between influence and independence, and between silence and truth. His journey is not just personal—it is symbolic of a generation caught between aspiration and manipulation.
The use of Kiswahili alongside English reflects the authentic voice of Kenyan society. Language in this play is not merely a tool of communication but a carrier of identity, emotion, and cultural truth. The blending of the two languages mirrors the lived realities of the characters and enhances the emotional depth of key moments.
This play does not seek to provide easy answers. Instead, it challenges the audience to reflect:
At what point does a citizen become responsible for the actions of their leaders?
When does silence become complicity?
And ultimately—when faced with the choice between the ballot and the bullet—what will we choose?
It is my hope that this work will spark dialogue, encourage critical thinking, and inspire a generation to choose courage over fear, and truth over convenience.
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BREAKING CHAINS Restoring Identity and Purpose by Dr Hillary Shikokoti
Breaking Chains:Restoring Identity and Purpose speaks to souls of a society in such of healing, direction and personal revival. The book begins with how we have deviated from the National Anthem, brings out The power of I, Self reflection and takes readers on a courageous journey of confronting and overcoming life's most crippling struggles-what the author refers to demons. The book unveils silent yet destructive forces that hinder individuals, families and Co from realizing their full potential. He explores struggles such as child trauma, procrastination, gambling, prostitution, Anger, lesbianism and homosexuality, Alcoholism and masturbation, depression and mental health exposing the emotional and spiritual emptiness they create. The book also delves on Marriage, parenting, parenting in the digital age, single parenting, divorce, the power and influence of friendship financial stability, performance,Networking, investment, mentorship, women and leadership, empowering the boychild for a balanced future and Managing your Health through Emotional intelligence and Healthy Living
ECHOES OF THE RIFT BY HILLARY SHIKOKOTI
Echoes of the Rift is a contemporary Kenyan novel that explores the enduring influence of ethnic identity, inherited prejudice, political division, love, and the search for national belonging. Set primarily in Murang’a, Siaya, and Nairobi, the novel follows Wanjiku, a young Kikuyu woman from Murang’a, and Otieno, the son of a Luo chief from Siaya, whose lives converge at the University of Nairobi. Raised within families that preserve strong cultural identities and memories of historical grievances, both characters initially inherit deeply rooted perceptions about the “other” community. Their encounter, friendship, and eventual love challenge the boundaries imposed upon them by family expectations, cultural traditions, and political narratives. As their relationship develops, the university becomes a microcosm of Kenya’s wider ethnic and political landscape. Wanjiku and Otieno confront the tension between cultural loyalty and national citizenship while navigating student politics, leadership struggles, corruption, manipulation, and ethnic mobilization. Their experiences expose how historical memories and political interests can transform legitimate community concerns into division and suspicion. The novel also examines the role of education, dialogue, youth leadership, civic responsibility, and technology in challenging inherited stereotypes and promoting social cohesion. The narrative moves beyond a conventional love story to interrogate the psychological and social consequences of inherited ethnic divisions. Through Wanjiku’s “Truth Echoes” platform and Otieno’s evolving understanding of leadership, the protagonists gradually transform personal adversity into a broader commitment to justice, accountability, inter-ethnic dialogue, and national unity. Their journey demonstrates that cultural identity and national belonging need not be mutually exclusive, while acknowledging that reconciliation is neither immediate nor complete. Ultimately, Echoes of the Rift presents Kenya as a nation whose historical divisions continue to echo across generations but whose future can be shaped through critical reflection, inclusive leadership, truth, justice, and deliberate efforts to build bridges across difference. The novel invites readers, particularly young people, to question inherited narratives, preserve cultural heritage without weaponizing identity, and imagine a more cohesive and inclusive Kenya.
SON OF THE SOIL: A PLAY BY HILLARY SHIKOKOTI
Son of the Soil stands within the long tradition of political theatre that interrogates the relationship between power, morality, and the aspirations of ordinary people. The play employs allegory, memory, and dramatic confrontation to examine the difficult transition from liberation struggle to political authority. In doing so, it raises profound questions about leadership, accountability, and the fragile nature of revolutionary ideals.
At the center of the drama is Raa-Ee-Lah, a character whose life represents the moral arc of many political movements. Beginning as a figure shaped by idealism and the teachings of his father, Jaduong, he grows into a leader confronted by the complex realities of governance and political survival. Through this journey, the play explores a recurring historical paradox: those who once fought to dismantle systems of oppression often find themselves navigating and sometimes reproducing those very structures.
The dramatic structure of Son of the Soil moves fluidly between memory, reflection, and confrontation. The presence of ancestral voices and symbolic dialogue creates a layered narrative that blends personal history with collective experience. This technique situates the play within a broader tradition of postcolonial theatre in which the stage becomes a space for examining the unfinished project of liberation.
Students approaching this text should consider several thematic questions:
• How does the play portray the transformation of revolutionary ideals over time?
• What role do memory and generational voices play in shaping political identity?
• In what ways does the drama critique the relationship between leaders and the people they claim to represent?
• Can the moral authority of liberation struggles survive the realities of state power?
By framing political conflict within a deeply human narrative, Son of the Soil invites readers and audiences to reflect not only on particular historical experiences but also on the universal challenge of preserving justice and accountability in positions of authority. Ultimately, the play reminds us that the struggle for freedom does not end with victory; it continues in the everyday choices made by those entrusted with power
REFLECTIONS OF HUMAN JOURNEY: A POETRY ANTHOLOGY BY HILLARY SHIKOKOTI
Poetry has always been one of humanity's most enduring ways of preserving memory, expressing emotion, questioning society and inspiring hope. Across generations, poets have given voice to ordinary people, captured defining moments in history, celebrated cultures, challenged injustice and imagined better futures. This anthology is a humble contribution to that enduring tradition. Reflections of the Human Journey is more than a collection of poems; it is a literary voyage through the experiences that shape individuals, communities and nations.
The poems celebrate the beauty of everyday life while confronting the realities that define our world. They tell stories of dreams and disappointments, love and loss, resilience and renewal, tradition and innovation, justice and inequality, as well as the opportunities and ethical questions brought by an ever-changing technological age. The anthology is organized into four thematic parts that mirror the progression of human experience.
Part I: The Rising Sun explores identity, family, faith, values and personal growth, reminding readers that every meaningful journey begins with self-discovery and character formation.
Part II: The Heartbeat of the Nation celebrates the resilience, dignity and industrious spirit of ordinary people whose daily lives sustain communities and build the nation.
Part III: The Mirror of Society invites readers to examine the triumphs and shortcomings of society by reflecting on issues such as justice, governance, inequality, leadership, conflict and social responsibility.
Finally, Part IV: The Changing Tides looks toward the future by exploring technology, artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, digital citizenship and the evolving relationship between humanity and innovation. Many of the poems draw inspiration from familiar experiences within Kenyan society—marketplaces, classrooms, hospitals, farms, homes, places of worship, bustling streets and workplaces. While deeply rooted in the Kenyan context, the themes speak to universal human experiences that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. They affirm that hope can flourish in adversity, that dignity exists in honest labour, that communities grow stronger through compassion, and that meaningful progress must always be guided by wisdom, integrity and respect for human dignity.
This anthology has also been developed with education in mind. It aligns with the aspirations of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) Competency-Based Curriculum by promoting critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, citizenship, digital literacy, learning to learn and self-efficacy. Beyond literary appreciation, the poems encourage readers to analyse ideas, appreciate diverse perspectives, reflect on moral choices and engage constructively with contemporary issues affecting individuals and society.
It is my hope that these poems will resonate with learners, teachers, scholars and general readers alike. Some may offer comfort during difficult moments; others may provoke reflection, inspire dialogue or challenge long-held assumptions. Above all, I hope they remind every reader that poetry is not confined to grand occasions or extraordinary lives.
It is found in the quiet sacrifices of parents, the determination of job seekers, the courage of workers, the dreams of young people, the
resilience of communities and the shared hope for a more just, compassionate and sustainable future. As you turn these pages, may you discover not only the stories of others but also echoes of your own experiences. May these poems encourage you to reflect more deeply, dream more boldly, and contribute more meaningfully to the world around you. If this anthology inspires even one reader to see humanity with greater understanding, empathy and hope, then it will have fulfilled its purpose.
Research Methods in Education by Dr. Hillary Abungana Shikokoti, Prof. Ursulla Achieng’ Okoth, Mr. Maurice Mudeheri, Abungana
The book serves as a guide to students, researchers and practitioners who seek to enhance potential in research with emphasis in education. Whether you are an entry level researcher or an experienced scholar looking to expand your methodological toolkit, the content will be valuable. The author have strive to present the material in a manner that is easy for readers with varying levels of experience in research. The authors bring a wealth of experience in educational research with a total of over 15 years of experience in teaching, carrying out research and mentoring students to successful completion of there thesis at both masters and PhD levels
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Brief Summary
In just over a decade, Boniface Mwangi has risen from poverty to prominence in Kenya. He is renowned for his powerful photographs and his courageous protests calling for social justice. However, little is known about the man himself.
Unbounded is a collection of engaging personal stories that takes us through some of the people, places and events that have shaped Boniface, easily one of Kenya best known photographers and activists. It is a portrait of the child, the man and some of the human, harrowing and even humorous episodes that he has witnessed and photographed.
This book tells of the two remarkable women - his mother and grandmother - who influenced his character and inspired his drive to raise awareness about poverty, inequality and corruption. His work as a photo-activist is grounded in social engagement, collective action and the need for justice.
This is the story of a man of determination and warmth, a man who lives his life to make a difference. We cannot change the world as individuals. We can only change the world together.
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