CHOKORA

The book title “Chokora” is derived from the derogatory term often used to address anyone living on the streets, irrespective of age or even gender. Through this heart-rending story, the author takes us on a journey through the twists and turns of a privileged but confusing upbringing, his “harmless experiments” with alcohol as a teenager and eventual addiction. Then through the denial and blame games that followed, before the devastating consequences of alcoholism eventually rendered him homeless. Forced to live in the streets of Nairobi, he experiences firsthand, the indignities and inhumane conditions of those living there. Treated as scum, he seeks ways to adjust to this life until in utter desperation, he attempts suicide. This attempt fails, and convinced he is the epitome of failure, finally resigns to await death in whatever form it will come. It is in the midst of these dark and daunting circumstances, that God finds and restores him, proving that with God, ALL things are possible. The story of alcoholism and drug addictions is far too common in our society and this book is a clarion call for us to come together and actively address this scourge, before it completely destroys our society. harder to smile