The matatu - a fast-paced symbol of modern technology - plays a harmonizing role between these worlds. Kioko characterizes the youthful promise of a modern nation while grandfather embodies traditional African culture. Modernity and tradition are subtle sub-themes. The interactions between Kioko and grandfather reveal youthful naiveté, the wisdom of elders and the crucial role Kenyan grandparents play in the rearing of grandchildren. In his innocence, Kioko takes solutions contained in his grandfather’s tale to resolve the moral impasse posed in the story. During the trip, grandfather tells his youngest grandson an entertaining Kamba pourquoi tale that explains why dogs chase matatus, why sheep just stand around when matatus pass, and why goats run from matatus. The Matatu is a simple story about a village boy from eastern Kenya who takes his first bus trip with his grandfather in a matatu - a popular African mini-bus with the aesthetics and theatrics that come with this popular mode of public transport.
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