A magnificent blend of Ugandan folklore and more modern notions of feminism. . . . This book is a jewel.” —Kirkus, Starred Review
“This beautifully rendered saga is a riveting deconstruction of social perceptions of women’s abilities and roles.” —Publishers Weekly
“In A Girl is a Body of Water Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi takes the classic male quest for identity and turns it spectacularly on its head. Kirabo’s journey toward self-possession is a beautiful, wise, and exhilarating read.” —Lily King, author of Writers & Lovers
“A wonder―as clear, vivid, moving, powerful, and captivatingly unpredictable as water itself.” —Namwali Serpell, author of The Old Drift
“A Girl is a Body of Water is captivating, wise, humorous and tender: Makumbi has come back stronger than ever. This is a tale about Kirabo and her family, and her place in the world as she searches for her mother and a true sense of belonging. But most of all, this is a book about the stories that define us, and those we tell to redefine ourselves. A riveting read.” —Maaza Mengiste, author of The Shadow King
“In her characteristically page-turning and engaging style, Makumbi lays bare the complex power dynamics of patriarchy, capitalism and neocolonialism, not through academic jargon but via that most effective tool of education―storytelling. An achingly beautiful tale.” —Sylvia Tamale
“Makumbi writes with the assurance and wry omniscience of an easygoing deity.” —The New York Times
“Ugandan literature can boast of an international superstar in Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi.” —The Economist
"Narrator Tovah Ott provides a warm performance of this coming-of-age audiobook about a Ugandan girl's journey to find her mother. Ott's sonorous voice brings rural 1970s Uganda to life. . . . Ott's impressive modulation provides distinct voices for multiple characters, fully immersing listeners in a patriarchal society full of strong women. The many family secrets and explorations of tradition will resonate with listeners." —AudioFile Magazine