The People of Kenya

The People of Kenya by Joy Adamson, published in 1967, is a richly illustrated ethnographic work that captures the diverse cultures, traditions, and attire of Kenya’s various ethnic groups. Known for her deep interest in indigenous cultures, Adamson—best known for Born Free—uses this book to document the unique identities of Kenya’s peoples through detailed watercolor portraits and accompanying descriptions.

The book serves as a visual and anthropological record of a rapidly changing society during the mid-20th century. The epilogue by G.W. Huntingford, a British anthropologist and ethnologist, provides additional scholarly context on the historical and cultural significance of the groups featured in the book.