The village is located near Kipanga, a larger town where many of the villagers work. Kipanga is home to many colorful characters, including a funny barber who tells colorful stories about his experiences fighting in World War II. On this day, Njoroge and Kamau’s father, Ngotho, is spending time in Kipanga. He soon returns home, proud that his son will be the first in the family to attend school. Ngotho works as a farmer for a British land-owner, Mr. Howlands, on land that Ngotho's family once owned.