A Grain of Wheat tackles a number of themes including colonialism, forgiveness and violence. It would be good to give a brief overview of what the state of emergency was. Make sure to make reference to the Mau Mau’s place in the resistance. You should also describe the detention camp. Having done this, it makes sense to discuss the theme of violence and colonialism in relation to the state of emergency and the detention camp.

You could look at each of the characters and how they were personally affected by either or both of the topics mentioned. Did it make them better or bitter? Were they forced into a certain way of thinking or action? Are their actions justifiable given that they were forced by the circumstances to defend themselves against the new rulers? You could also delve into the implications of choosing a certain course: do you do the right thing and stick with your people by confessing to the bad things you participated in, do you forget your heritage and work for the very people your people are trying to rid of the land or do you run away in the name of self-preservation?

These are some questions you could answer and develop in answering the question.