Kenyan author Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, known as one of Africa's most important contemporary writers and intellectuals, has made significant contributions to the fields of literature, theater, and cultural studies. Most of his books including "Weep Not, Child," "The River Between" and "Petals of Blood" are considered African classic literature. Ngugi, who recently turned 85, often addresses themes of colonialism, independence, cultural identity in his work while using literature as a tool for social change.