Magic and Beliefs
As a young child, William believes this powerful force “rules the world.”
What is magic
This uncle’s death creates grief and financial hardship for the family.
Who is Uncle Jon
William and Geoffrey learn to repair these common household machines.
What are radios
This crop is the main food source for William’s family and many Malawians.
What is Maize
The food shortage is caused in part by excessive rainfall, drought, and the failure of this crop.
What is maize
William fears he has been cursed after eating these.
What are gumballs
This cousin often works and experiments with William.
Who is Geoffrey
William becomes fascinated by this device because it can power a bicycle light.
What is a Dynamo
This thick porridge made from maize is a staple food.
What is nsima
William’s family eventually reduces their daily meals to this many.
What is one meal per day
This type of traditional healer is believed to place curses on people.
What is a witch doctor
This is William Kamkwamba’s father.
Who is Trywell
William and Geoffrey search through trash for these so they can test radios.
What are batteries
William’s family grows this crop to earn extra money.
What is tobacco
Agnes starts selling these at the market to help the family survive.
What are sweet cakes
William wants this magical strength so he can stand up to bigger boys.
What is manglomera
This is the name of William's dog
What is Khamba
William prefers machines to farming because machines can be understood through this process.
What is experimentation
These day labor jobs become harder to find as the food shortage worsens.
What is ganyu
This man has been helping the hungry villagers throughout the famine
Who is Chief Wimbe
William’s failed attempt to use magic in a fight teaches him that this is not as reliable as he hoped.
What is supernatural strength
William hopes secondary school will allow him to study this subject more deeply.
What is science
During the famine, people become desperate enough to eat this outer part of maize.
What is gaga