One of the leading writers and scholars at work today, Ng¿g¿ wa Thiong'o was born in Limuru, Kenya, in 1938. He is the author of A Grain of Wheat; Weep Not, Child; and Petals of Blood, as well as Birth of a Dream Weaver, Wrestling with the Devil, and Minutes of Glory (all from The New Press). Currently Distinguished Professor of English and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Irvine, Ng¿g¿ is recipient of twelve honorary doctorates, among other awards.