Feminism

[Joanne]

Do you find it ironic that the book is being considered more, in this venue atleast, for the animal-related, rather than feminist, aspects of it? Likewise, what do you think is the reason behind such a sense of camaraderie between feminists and animal-rights or animal-welfare supporters? Personally for you, would it have to do with the notion of overcoming oppression?

[Cristina Kessler]

Not really. I wrote it to highlight the special connection between the Maasai and wildlife, so that is a strong theme throughout. I also wrote it to show that Maasai girls and women also share in that connection. I also think that it truly has a feminist theme, and Namelok's actions show that she is strong and determined, driven on in large part for her love of her rhino family. So she is challenging the culture when she heads out on her mission to capture the poacher, defying tradition by being in the bush all alone, facing danger.