Part 1: Chapter 3 Summary

Chapter 3 brings us back to the present day. Munira is in his cell, and has been questioned by a young police officer that has no patience for his ramblings about Wanja's history, God, or anything else. He wants simple facts, which Munira, in his present flustered state, cannot give. He is put back in his cell, and falls into a deep sleep. The next morning a new officer has come from Nairobi to take over the investigation. He is more patient, and apologizes for the abruptness of Munira's previous questioner. He agrees to give Munira pen and paper to write down his statement rather than give it verbally, as per Munira's request, but he apologetically tells Munira that he must keep Munira locked up until he has finished his statement.

As the memories of the past twelve years flood through his...