Not merely to survive but to improve her living conditions and help her family, Tambudzai Siguake gets a good education and leaves behind the heartbreaking poverty she experienced growing up in late 1960s Zimbabwe. She overcomes many obstacles to obtain a professional job where her work will be recognized. After a few jobs go awry, she finds a position as a tourist agent with Eco Travel that brings the desired monetary rewards and a real sense of accomplishment. As the business expands to village tours, a direct, powerful clash with her native traditions and customs bring her the realization that she can trust only family. She gives up her dream of living on a fair, equitable basis with the white colonialists and capitalists who are moving Zimbabwe into an unwelcome future.
VERDICT In this sequel to 1998's Commonwealth Writers' Prize-winning Nervous Conditions, which explored Tambudzai's childhood, Dangarembga writes with a graceful eloquence that keeps the pages turning quickly. One hopes a third book will continue the journey of this sympathetic character from an immensely talented author.
Comment Policy:
Comment should not be empty !!!