#95 A Genre Shift in Biography Narratives

 Not many take an introspective look at their lives and the tipping-point-events shaped them and then share it wholly and unreservedly.

Book:                    Fragile to Fierce

Biographer:        Richard Kitheka Mbindyo

Pages:                  192

Publisher:            DonBosco 2024

"Fragile to Fierce: A True Life Story of Marino Gemma" and marks a significant shift in the genre of missionary narratives. Traditionally, these accounts have focused on the collective efforts of religious societies. However, "Fragile to Fierce" delves into the personal story of Fr. Marino Gemma, a Consolata missionary, offering a more intimate look at the life and impact of an individual dedicated to spreading the faith with the hope that this personal travails will inspire anyone going through a period of self-doubt and doubt of God's mysterious majesty over our lives, careers and growth curves- if only we receive Him and let him take charge.

All through life we encounter delicate areas punctuated with psychological impasses or wounding if I may. No one is immune. All of us undergo some sort of period when things don’t make sense and we have the echo of loss or resonance of failure stalking us from within.  This de-vitalizing depression in life is common. For some people, it brings misalignment and sorrow or layers itself as a lifetime wound, affecting how we see and react to the world.

The complex ongoing narrative can begin to access the range of masculine and feminine domains of our lives and can kill our life force. Most people do not speak about their losses or pains as Fr Marino has done. He has presented his experiences to us to dissect and hopefully help us all be better one way or another.

This writer’s biographical approach allows for a nuanced portrayal of Fr. Gemma's personality and how it shapes his approach to evangelization, a rare move by a writer. Through detailed descriptions and insightful reflections, the reader gains a deeper understanding of how Fr. Gemma utilizes the specific charisms of his Consolata congregation for which he has served 30 years now most of these years being served in Kenya. The narrative, rich with details gleaned from personal interviews and conversations, paints a vivid picture of this remarkable missionary.

The book engages with reflections, prayers and scriptural connections thus becoming an interactive book that invites the reader to actively participate in the narrative all the while being a storyteller book.

The scripture citations relevant to each chapter provide additional avenues for contemplation and personal connection to the themes explored. This innovative structure transforms reading "Fragile to Fierce" into a spiritually enriching experience, reminiscent of Ignatian spiritual exercises.

According to Prof Fr Lawrence Mbugua, "Richard Mbindyo's command of the English language allows him to seamlessly shift between concise prose and evocative descriptions, employing vivid imagery to create a captivating narrative.  Importantly, the book heavily features Fr. Gemma's own words, transcribed from extensive interviews done and refined over a year. This collaboration lends a powerful voice to the protagonist, ensuring his personality shines through the pages."

The endorsements in the book are cited from people who reviewed it before it was published. 16 of them to be precise by laymen, Christians and large and clergy at hand. From these diverse readers there is suggestion that "Fragile to Fierce" has the potential to join the ranks of impactful spiritual narratives alongside classics like "Confessions of St. Augustine" and "Apologia Pro Vita Sua" by St. John Henry Newman. It offers a refreshing perspective on the lives of missionaries, highlighting not just their actions but also their personal journeys of faith.

In a literary landscape dominated by biographies of politicians and celebrities, "Fragile to Fierce" stands out as a christian biography unlike few others. It sheds light on the life of a man who has dedicated himself to leaving a spiritual legacy, not only in Kenya but beyond. The book's significance is further emphasized by the powerful cover image, depicting a cub transforming into a lion, a visual representation of the title's core message.

In the forward , Prof Fr Lawrence Mbugua who is the Chaplain of JKUAT university and a well-known and revered theologian compels us to "Tolle lege" - "Take up and read!". This is a powerful invitation to delve into "Fragile to Fierce" with all its nuances, promises and rewards.  The book promises a captivating journey, not just through the life of Fr. Gemma, but also into a deeper understanding of faith, perseverance, and the power of individual dedication.

I encourage you to read it and make it your companion as you reflect on your personal journey or take up a retreat at Karen Resurrection Gardens or any retreat you may choose to make even if it’s just a coach or bedside retreat.

The book is available at NURIA BOOKSTORE, CONSOLATA BOOKSHOP, CATHOLIC BOOKSHOP, PRESTIGE, KAREN RESURRECTION GARDENS and online stores.