FMV Book Club: The First Woman by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi

Join us as we travel to Uganda this November with our selected novel, The First Woman by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi! 🇺🇬

Genre: Literary Fiction / Coming-of-Age
About the Book:
Set against the backdrop of Uganda in the 1970s and 1980s, this captivating story follows Kirabo, a determined young girl on a quest to discover her identity and origins. Raised by her grandparents, Kirabo's journey leads her to seek her long-lost mother while facing the challenges of friendship, family expectations, and societal gender roles. With rich folklore and inspiring women, this narrative celebrates how they shape their own destinies.

Why We Chose It:
At FMV, we're passionate about exploring underrepresented stories from diverse communities. The First Woman not only introduces us to Uganda's vibrant culture but also resonates with universal themes of identity, belonging, and self-expression. Rather than focusing solely on conflict, it showcases the humor, strength, and dreams of women, emphasizing growth and joy.

Haven't read the book? No worries!
Our discussions are inclusive and welcoming to everyone — whether you’ve finished the novel, skimmed through it, or are just curious to learn more. Come engage in themes, history, and cultural context with us. Don’t forget to bring a friend!

📌 Join our community here: FMV Book Club Facebook Group