The first part of the book is a vast compendium of Kikuyu riddles. This section features a very large number of ndaĩ . These are presented in alphabetical order according to their Kikuyu transcription. The ndaĩ traditionally served as a game for children, designed to sharpen their intellect and teach them about the world around them in an engaging, metaphorical way. In Ndai na Gicandi , many of these riddles are presented without extensive explanation in a style that some critics have noted leaves the reader to piece together their meaning and function.

The winner wins pride and respect from the community. Why People Search for the PDF Finding these enigmas in a PDF format is very useful.

The verses contain oral histories regarding the interactions between the Kikuyu, the Maasai, and the Dorobo (Athi) peoples.

Mũndũ agĩkũrūra kĩhembe. (A person milking a cow – two hands, three teats/teats and bucket).

While Gicandi represents the "grand master" level of Gikuyu intellect, (riddles) serve as the foundation for children and neophytes to develop mental agility. Common examples of Ndai include: Gicandi Musical Instrument

The book is the life's work of Vittorio Merlo Pick, an Italian Consolata missionary who lived among the Gikuyu of Kenya for twenty-seven years. His deep familiarity with the language and culture lends the work great authenticity. Published in 1973 in Bologna, Italy, the 301-page volume presents the collected enigmas in three languages: Kikuyu, English, and Italian. It is the first in the "Biblioteca Scientifica" series and remains the most comprehensive documentation of this fast-disappearing art form.

: Digital versions, partial chapters, and scans of Ndai Na Gicandi = Kikuyu enigmas = Enigmi Kikuyu are cataloged within major global libraries. You can check availability or request digital interlibrary loans via the Centro PIME Library Network.

These are the foundational riddles used to train the minds of children and "neophytes." They focus on observation and quick wit.