Customer Reviews

Our Kind of Polygamy

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The value of this book is that the Kenyan author is able to describe how polygamy functions in a society where it has long been traditional. Author Maillu describes the benefits that flow from polygamy, as well as the problems that arise, and how traditional African society deals with them. There is much shrewd practical advice in this book. Especially interesting is the association of polygamy with what we would call "traditional moral values"--ie extended family, respect for elders, that sort of thing. Polygamy in Africa is not an "alternative lifestyle". The author also looks at modern Africa, under pressure to adopt Western ways. But traditional Africa, he says, has its own wisdom, which is often superior to that of the West. He calls upon his countrymen to take more pride in African ways, to affirm their africanness.And we non-Africans? We too, could learn a thing or two. This book offers unique insights into an interesting subject.