As our education system continues to transcend into the new curriculum, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development has finally approved literature books to be used in Grade 7, Grade 8 and Grade 9. The expectation is that these books will help young learners to prepare for high school education as well as shaping their future careers.
We have gone out and put together a list of books that have been approved thus far for parents, pupils and even teachers, so that when they go out there, they’ll be able to purchase the correct books.
Grade 7
- Strange Happenings
- Publisher: One Planet
- Author: Jennie Marima
- Mji wa Matarajio
- Publisher: One Planet
- Author: Assumpta K. Matei
- Uteuzi wa Chale
- Publisher: One Planet
- Author: Assumpta K. Matei
Grade 8
- Daughter of Nature and other poems
- Publisher: Access Publishers
- Authors: Mbugua wa Mungai and Mugo Muhia
- Mshale wa Matumaini
- Publisher: Access Publishers
- Author: John Habwe
- Beka’s Misfortunes and other stories
- Publisher: East African Educational
- Authors: Chrispin O. Kekelwa, Joe Kiarie, Kabaru Ndegwa
Grade 9
- The Hidden Package
- Publisher: East African Educational
- Author: Muthoni wa Gichuru
- Toby’s Diary
- Publisher: East African Educational
- Author: Ebeneze Tabot
- Hidaya
- Publisher: East African Educational
- Author: Juma Namlola Mohamed
Final Thoughts
Literature plays an important role in the Kenya’s education system especially for students in Grades 7 to 9. This stage of learning helps students develop an appreciation for diverse narratives as well as cultural heritage. The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) acknowledges the importance of literature in shaping minds. Young learners are expected to improve their language skills as well as encourage them in critical thinking while reflecting on Kenya’s rich heritage. Through these selected books, grade 7, 8 and 9 students will gain an insight into their own culture and global perspectives preparing them for higher education and becoming responsible citizenship.