A century of Kenyan history is woven through this story of Hillcrest, casting back to the early lives of its founders: Kenneth Matiba, who was interned without trial during Kenya's politically repressive era and later stood for president, Frank Thompson who worked for the educational sector in the colonial service, Stephen Smith whose father was a teacher, teaching both Kenneth Matiba and his father, and Dorothy Noad who overcame her own family tragedies to make her mark on primary education in Kenya.
Meanwhile, as half a century of Kenya's post-independence politics twist and turn, an extraordinary school emerges triumphant from its many challenges and hurdles - including going into receivership for six years. Many colourful people have walked through the doors of Hillcrest, leaving behind a legacy of wonderful stories and making this book an unforgettable tale that inspires laughter, tears, admiration and astonishment.
"This book is both a record and revelation.Full of fascinating detail, it vividly captures the voices and emotions of a great many of those who across five decades have contributed to the creation of Hillcrest as both an outstanding educational institution and an inspirational community. It informs and it entertains." - Colin Simpson, former English Teacher at Hillcrest, actor and journalist
Meanwhile, as half a century of Kenya's post-independence politics twist and turn, an extraordinary school emerges triumphant from its many challenges and hurdles - including going into receivership for six years. Many colourful people have walked through the doors of Hillcrest, leaving behind a legacy of wonderful stories and making this book an unforgettable tale that inspires laughter, tears, admiration and astonishment.
"This book is both a record and revelation.Full of fascinating detail, it vividly captures the voices and emotions of a great many of those who across five decades have contributed to the creation of Hillcrest as both an outstanding educational institution and an inspirational community. It informs and it entertains." - Colin Simpson, former English Teacher at Hillcrest, actor and journalist